{"id":2060892,"date":"2024-10-22T12:47:48","date_gmt":"2024-10-22T17:47:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/?post_type=recipe&#038;p=2060892"},"modified":"2024-10-22T12:47:48","modified_gmt":"2024-10-22T17:47:48","slug":"lentil-meatballs","status":"publish","type":"recipe","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/lentil-meatballs\/","title":{"rendered":"Lentil Meatballs"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>These vegetarian lentil meatballs are the answer when you&#8217;re craving something hearty, savory, and utterly satisfying\u2014minus the meat. Packed with protein-rich lentils, fragrant herbs and a hint of garlic, they\u2019re baked until golden and then simmered in your favorite marinara sauce. The result? A tender, flavor-packed bite that\u2019s deliciously saucy and perfect for piling onto pasta or serving with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/crusty-homemade-bread\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/crusty-homemade-bread\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">crusty bread<\/a>. Even meat lovers will find themselves coming back for seconds.<\/p>\n<h2>Lentil Meatballs Ingredients<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Dried lentils:<\/b> These provide a hearty, protein-rich base for the meatballs and create a firm texture when blended.<\/li>\n<li><b>Reduced-sodium vegetable broth:<\/b> The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-make-vegetable-broth\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-make-vegetable-broth\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">vegetable broth<\/a> gives the lentils a layer of savory flavor as they cook, ensuring a well-seasoned base.<\/li>\n<li><b>Olive oil:<\/b> It adds a touch of fat that helps saut\u00e9 the vegetables, enhancing their flavor and preventing sticking.<\/li>\n<li><b>Onion:<\/b> This ingredient adds sweetness and depth to the meatballs, creating a balanced flavor profile.<\/li>\n<li><b>Celery:<\/b> It contributes a subtle earthy flavor and adds moisture to the mixture.<\/li>\n<li><b>Garlic:<\/b> It imparts a pungent, savory note that deepens the overall taste of the meatballs.<\/li>\n<li><b>Quick-cooking oats:<\/b> These oats act as a binder, helping to absorb moisture and keep the meatballs from falling apart.<\/li>\n<li><b>Egg:<\/b> This ingredient provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together for a cohesive texture.<\/li>\n<li><b>Tomato paste:<\/b> It adds rich and concentrated umami flavor and a hint of acidity to balance the dish.<\/li>\n<li><b>Salt:<\/b> This enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and ensures a well-seasoned final product.<\/li>\n<li><b>Dried oregano:<\/b> It infuses the mixture with a warm, slightly bitter note typical of Italian-inspired dishes.<\/li>\n<li><b>Dried basil:<\/b> This herb adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that compliments the tomato and garlic.<\/li>\n<li><b>Pepper:<\/b> It adds a touch of heat and sharpness, balancing the flavors of the meatballs.<\/li>\n<li><b>Marinara sauce:<\/b> A tangy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/marinara-vs-tomato-sauce\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/marinara-vs-tomato-sauce\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">marinara sauce<\/a> coats the meatballs to add moisture and flavor during simmering.<\/li>\n<li><b>Parmesan cheese:<\/b> It provides a salty, nutty finish that adds umami richness to the dish.<\/li>\n<li><b>Fresh parsley:<\/b> This herb offers a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor and a bright green garnish for the final presentation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Directions<\/h2>\n<h3>Step 1: Cook the lentils<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067949\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_1.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Step 1 of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs is to make the lentils\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Preheat the oven to 375\u00b0F. In a large saucepan,combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and allow the lentils to cool slightly.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Saut\u00e9 the vegetables<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067946\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_2.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Step 2 of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs is to cook the veggies in a pan\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery and minced garlic. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally until tender. This takes four to five minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Blend the lentils and vegetables<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067945\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_3.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Step 3 of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs is to pulse lentils and vegies ingredients in a food processor\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Place the cooked lentils and saut\u00e9ed vegetables in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse the mixture until a smooth paste forms, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture. Transfer the lentil mixture to a large mixing bowl.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 4: Mix the meatball ingredients<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067944\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_4.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Step 4 of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs is to combined the lentil mixture with the rest of the meatball ingredients\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Add the quick-cooking oats, beaten egg, tomato paste, salt, dried oregano, dried basil and pepper to the lentil mixture in the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. Shape the mixture into balls about 1-1\/2 inches in diameter.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 5: Bake the meatballs<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067943\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_5.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Step 5 of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs is to shape into one and one half inch balls and placed on tray\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Fit a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet with a wire rack and coat it with cooking spray. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared rack, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are lightly browned and firm to the touch.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 6: Simmer the meatballs in marinara<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067942\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_6.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Step 6 of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs is to add the cooked meatballs to a pan, pour in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Transfer the baked meatballs to a large skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook the meatballs in the sauce for six to eight minutes, or until the marinara is bubbly and heated through. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067941\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_7.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Single serving of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs in marinara sauce, on spaghetti, garnished with parmesan and parsley\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Lentil Meatballs Variations<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Make it vegan:<\/b> Replace the egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for five minutes until it thickens. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor.<\/li>\n<li><b>Add more veggies:<\/b> Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots into the mixture before baking. These will add moisture and a rich umami flavor.<\/li>\n<li><b>Make it a lentil loaf:<\/b> Press the lentil mixture into a greased loaf pan instead of shaping it into meatballs. Bake at 375\u00b0F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden and firm. Let the loaf rest for ten minutes before slicing and serving with marinara or a ketchup glaze for a hearty, sliceable alternative.<\/li>\n<li><b>Go Middle Eastern:<\/b> Replace the oregano and basil with cumin and coriander. Serve the lentil meatballs with a homemade tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread.<\/li>\n<li><b>Try a different bean:<\/b> Substitute the lentils with cooked red beans or chickpeas. These beans will create a slightly different texture and flavor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How to Store Lentil Meatballs<\/h2>\n<p>The best way to store these lentil meatballs is to let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator where they\u2019ll stay fresh for up to four days. Make sure the meatballs are in a single layer or place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you freeze lentil meatballs?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, you can freeze lentil meatballs. These are an especially good option for meal prep. Let the meatballs cool completely after baking and then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to three months.<\/p>\n<h3>How long do lentil meatballs last?<\/h3>\n<p>Lentil meatballs will last up to four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to cool them completely before storing for the best texture and flavor.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you make lentil meatballs ahead of time?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, lentil meatballs are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the mixture, shape the meatballs and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to four days. Reheat when you\u2019re ready to serve.<\/p>\n<h3>How do you reheat lentil meatballs?<\/h3>\n<p>Place the meatballs in a skillet with a little marinara sauce and warm over medium-low heat until heated through, about five to seven minutes. You can also reheat them in a preheated 350\u00b0 oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Just cover the meatballs with foil to prevent them from drying out.<\/p>\n<h2>Lentil Meatballs Tips<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2067940\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_8.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Single serving of Taste Recipes Lentil Meatballs in marinara sauce, on spaghetti, garnished with parmesan and parsley\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sarah Tramonte for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>What type of lentils are best for making lentil meatballs?<\/h3>\n<p>Green or brown lentils work best for making lentil meatballs because they hold their shape well when cooked. Red lentils tend to become mushy and may not provide the same firm texture needed for shaping meatballs.<\/p>\n<h3>What can I serve with lentil meatballs?<\/h3>\n<p>Lentil meatballs pair well with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/the-ultimate-guide-to-pasta-shapes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/the-ultimate-guide-to-pasta-shapes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">pasta<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/zucchini-noodles-recipe\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/zucchini-noodles-recipe\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">zucchini noodles<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-polenta\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/creamy-polenta\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">creamy polenta<\/a> for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, try serving them over a bed of saut\u00e9ed greens or a simple salad.<\/p>\n<h3>How can I make sure my lentil meatballs don\u2019t fall apart?<\/h3>\n<p>Make sure the mixture is well-blended and slightly sticky before shaping keep your lentil meatballs from falling apart. Adding a bit more oats or letting the mixture sit for five minutes before forming the balls can help improve their structure. Don\u2019t simmer them in marinara for more than eight minutes or let them come to a full boil\u2014this can break them apart.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I use steel-cut oats instead of quick-cooking oats in this recipe?<\/h3>\n<p>Steel-cut oats aren\u2019t ideal for this recipe because they are coarser and take longer to cook, which can make the meatballs too chewy. Quick-cooking oats or even rolled oats that have been slightly ground are a better choice for a smoother texture.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hearty and herb-packed, these vegetarian lentil meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8065,"featured_media":2067937,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ep_exclude_from_search":false},"tags":[303971,304162,306879,307659,306910,305271,304292,305487,307033,305334,303966,303887,306848,305353,306898,304268,306279,304026,307698,306961,324623,304243,303994,304020,304005,304150,303883,307614],"categories-v2":[308500,309439,309854,310637,309906,308988,308481,309216,308305,310796,310079,309337,308495,308478,309603,309362,309876,259483,312134,308606,310669,309961,309177,309586,308528,308594,308549,309434,308476,310591],"coauthors":[343536],"recommended_recipes":[{"post_title":"Lentil and Pasta Stew","post_link":"\/recipes\/lentil-and-pasta-stew\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Lentil-and-Pasta-Stew_EXPS_SSMZ20_161163_B04_10_4b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Rice Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/rice-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/EXPS_TOHD24_21460_KristinaVanni_1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Spinach Turkey Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/spinach-turkey-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Spinach-Turkey-Meatballs_EXPS_FT24_11008_EC_012624_7.jpg"},{"post_title":"Eggplant Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/eggplant-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/EXPS_137182_IMG_5716.jpg"},{"post_title":"Pork Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/pork-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Pork-Meatballs_EXPS_TOHD24_21473_LeticiaAlmeida_05.jpg"},{"post_title":"Passover Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/passover-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Passover-Meatballs_EXPS_FT21_28016_F_0317_1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Venison Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/venison-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps14623_HFBZ1081941D21.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lentil Stew","post_link":"\/recipes\/spinach-lentil-stew\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/EXPS_TOHD24_21243_JoeCrimmings_5.jpg"},{"post_title":"Pizza Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/pizza-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Pizza-Meatballs_exps1845_FFR1554516D23A_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lentil Sloppy Joes","post_link":"\/recipes\/lentil-sloppy-joes\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Lentil-Sloppy-Joes_EXPS_TOHbcom23_230743_DR_02_23_-6b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lamb Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/lamb-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lamb-Meatballs_EXPS_TOHD25_278793_ChristineMa_2.jpg"},{"post_title":"Meatball Casserole","post_link":"\/recipes\/meatball-casserole\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps41587_HC1442842D65A.jpg"},{"post_title":"Meatballs with Pepper Sauce","post_link":"\/recipes\/meatballs-with-pepper-sauce\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps13244_GBS1554510D41.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lentil Stew","post_link":"\/recipes\/lentil-stew\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps5948_CS1304C72.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lentil Burger","post_link":"\/recipes\/perfect-lentil-burgers\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_277042_SheriSilver_6.jpg"},{"post_title":"Vegan Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/vegan-meatballs-recipe\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Vegan-Meatballs_EXPS_DIYDAP23_272667_DR_05_02_4b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Hearty Lentil Spaghetti","post_link":"\/recipes\/hearty-lentil-spaghetti\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps29016_LTA1132860D168.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lentil Pepperoni Stew","post_link":"\/recipes\/lentil-pepperoni-stew\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Lentil-Pepperoni-Stew_EXPS_SSMZ20_20622_E10_08_4b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Venison Sausage Meatballs","post_link":"\/recipes\/venison-sausage-meatballs\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps20357_RDSC1049409D45-1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Meatballs and Beans","post_link":"\/recipes\/meatballs-and-beans\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/recipeFallback.jpg"}],"acf":{"long_pin_file":false,"ncv_override_generic_settings_option":false,"ncv_autoplay_option":"","ncv_stickyplay_option":"","ncv_ads_option":"","ncv_mute_option":"","ncv_comscore_option":"","ncv_autoplay_mobile_option":"","ncv_viewable_threshold_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_option":"","ncv_autopause_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_mobile_option":"","ncv_autopause_mobile_option":"","ncv_sticky_mobile_option":"","ncv_remove_player_option":false,"ncv_moat_option":""},"recipe_schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"Recipe","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/lentil-meatballs\/","name":"Lentil Meatballs","datePublished":"2024-10-22","dateModified":"2024-10-22","prepTime":"PT35M","cookTime":"PT25M","totalTime":"PT60M","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_9.jpg","height":1200,"width":1200},"recipeCategory":["Dinner"],"description":"Hearty and herb-packed, these vegetarian lentil meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.","recipeIngredient":["3\/4 cup dried lentils, rinsed","1-1\/2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth","2 teaspoons olive oil","1\/2 cup finely chopped onion","1\/4 cup finely chopped celery","3 garlic cloves, minced","1\/2 cup quick-cooking oats","1 large egg, room temperature, beaten","2 tablespoons tomato paste","1 teaspoon salt","1 teaspoon dried oregano","1 teaspoon dried basil","1\/2 teaspoon pepper","1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce","1\/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese","3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley"],"recipeInstructions":[{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Cook the lentils","text":"Preheat the oven to 375\u00b0F. In a large saucepan,combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and allow the lentils to cool slightly.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_1.jpg?fit=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Saut\u00e9 the vegetables","text":"In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery and minced garlic. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally until tender. This takes four to five minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_2.jpg?fit=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Blend the lentils and vegetables","text":"Place the cooked lentils and saut\u00e9ed vegetables in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse the mixture until a smooth paste forms, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture. Transfer the lentil mixture to a large mixing bowl.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_3.jpg?fit=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Mix the meatball ingredients","text":"Add the quick-cooking oats, beaten egg, tomato paste, salt, dried oregano, dried basil and pepper to the lentil mixture in the bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. Shape the mixture into balls about 1-1\/2 inches in diameter.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_4.jpg?fit=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Bake the meatballs","text":"Fit a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet with a wire rack and coat it with cooking spray. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared rack, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are lightly browned and firm to the touch.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_5.jpg?fit=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Simmer the meatballs in marinara","text":"Transfer the baked meatballs to a large skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook the meatballs in the sauce for six to eight minutes, or until the marinara is bubbly and heated through. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Lentil-meatballs_TOHD24_273265_SarahTramonte_6.jpg?fit=700,1024"}],"recipeYield":"2 dozen","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Joy Manning"}],"nutrition":{"@type":"NutritionInformation","calories":" 62 calories","fatContent":"2g fat (0 saturated fat)","cholesterolContent":"10mg cholesterol","sodiumContent":"287mg sodium","carbohydrateContent":"9g carbohydrate (2g sugars","fiberContent":"2g fiber)","proteinContent":"3g protein."},"aggregateRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":0,"reviewCount":0,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5},"recipeCuisine":"Europe, Italian"},"video":{"data":{"status":204},"message":"No shortcode found in recipe"},"rms_legacy_id":"273265","romance_copy_dek":"Hearty and herb-packed, these vegetarian lentil meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.","enhanced_recipe_title":"Lentil Meatballs","rms_legacy_data":{"RecipeCategories":null,"Ingredients":[{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"3\/4 cup dried lentils, rinsed","IngredientText":"3\/4 cup dried lentils, rinsed"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1-1\/2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth","IngredientText":"1-1\/2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2 teaspoons olive oil","IngredientText":"2 teaspoons olive oil"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 cup finely chopped onion","IngredientText":"1\/2 cup finely chopped onion"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/4 cup finely chopped celery","IngredientText":"1\/4 cup finely chopped celery"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"3 garlic cloves, minced","IngredientText":"3 garlic cloves, minced"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 cup quick-cooking oats","IngredientText":"1\/2 cup quick-cooking oats"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 large egg, room temperature, beaten","IngredientText":"1 large egg, room temperature, beaten"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"2 tablespoons tomato paste","IngredientText":"2 tablespoons tomato paste"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 teaspoon salt","IngredientText":"1 teaspoon salt"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 teaspoon dried oregano","IngredientText":"1 teaspoon dried oregano"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 teaspoon dried basil","IngredientText":"1 teaspoon dried basil"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 teaspoon pepper","IngredientText":"1\/2 teaspoon pepper"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce","IngredientText":"1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"1\/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese","IngredientText":"1\/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese"},{"CampaignId":"","IsBrandedIngredient":false,"Ingredient":"3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley","IngredientText":"3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley"}],"FeaturedImage":"","RecipeId":273265,"AttachmentSourceId":null,"AttachmentSource":"","PhotoCredit":null,"VideoCode":null,"RecipeAttachmentFileName":"","ContributorId":null,"Firstname":"Heather","Lastname":"Karow","City":"Burnett","StateDescription":"Wisconsin","IsCommunityCook":true,"ContributorAttachmentFileName":"https:\/\/cdn3.tmbi.com\/toh\/Recipe\/testkitchenapproved.png","TimeCallout":"Prep: 35 min. 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