Spiced Tunisian Harissa-Infused Meatballs with Chickpea Salad
A delightful combination of juicy meatballs infused with spiced harissa and paired with a refreshing chickpea salad.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Meatballs
- 1
Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, combine ground lamb, harissa paste, cumin, coriander, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Mix Well
Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- 3
Shape and Chill
Form the mixture into small meatballs and place on a tray. Chill for 20 minutes to set the shape.
Tip: Chilling the meatballs helps them maintain their shape during cooking.
Preparing the Chickpea Salad
- 1
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- 2
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Tip: For an extra kick, mix some harissa paste directly into the salad dressing!
- 3
Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
How to Make Spiced Tunisian Harissa-Infused Meatballs with Chickpea Salad
Total time: 1 h 33 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Sear the Meatballs
Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat and cook meatballs, turning frequently until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- 2
Rest the Meatballs
Allow meatballs to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.
- 3
Assemble the Dish
Pair the warm meatballs alongside the chilled chickpea salad for a contrast in temperatures.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover meatballs and salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, both the meatballs and salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just store them separately.
Are there alternatives to lamb or beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, uncooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Try replacing the meatballs with falafel for a vegetarian alternative.
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