Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Rice

Ingredients

• 1 lb turkey
• 1 sprig oregano
• 3 leaves basil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 medium onion
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 28 oz tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 0.5 piece bell pepper
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 1 pinch peppers
• 0.25 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 cup long-grain white rice

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, chopped onion, fresh oregano, fresh basil, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
2. 2Brown the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides. Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.
3. 3Make the Sauce: Add remaining 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the skillet. Add chopped bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more. Pour in crushed tomatoes, add a pinch of dried red pepper flakes (if using), sea salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. 4Simmer the Meatballs: Gently place the browned meatballs into the simmering tomato sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has thickened.
5. 5Cook the Rice: While the meatballs are simmering, cook the rice according to package directions.
6. 6Serve: Serve the turkey meatballs and tomato sauce over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.