–This winter, the superb Chef Ashton Keefe is teaming up with Wine Awesomeness to bring you a series of dishes designed to keep you warm, cozy and delightfully full. (Hint: these would also go mighty well with wine.) Keep posted for more deliciously comfortable dishes from Ashton, and keep an eye out for her upcoming cookbook “Lemon & Salt: A Modern Girls’ Guide to Culinary Revelry.” It will be available Spring 2015… click here for more information. —
Bottom line, winter is all about being cozy. The hustle and bustle of summer is still months away and the last time I knew of anyone throwing a Polar Vortex party… well, let’s just say it was sparsely attended. Although we all crave sunshine, rosé and grilling there is something nice about winter food. It’s a chance to indulge in warmer, sometimes heartier and always satisfying meals.
Over the course of the next 4 – 6 weeks (depending on that damn groundhog) we’ll be sharing our favorite winter warmer recipes with a little extra love attached to them. Now, grab your blanket, light the fire and pour yourself a tall one of red (wine), it’s time to savor winter.
Turkey Meatballs
Makes 12 large meatballs
Simple, healthy and loaded with pantry staples, these meatballs will be your new go-to.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1 lb. ground turkey meat
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
1 egg, lightly whisked
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
In a large high-sided skillet heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Divide the onion mixtur and remove half from the pan, place in a large bowl. To the remaining onion (still in the pan) add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Simmer the sauce.
To the large bowl add turkey meat, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, spices, egg, bread crumbs and cheese. Mix gently to combine and form into 12 balls.
Place balls in the sauce and cook, rotating until internal temperature reaches 165° F.
