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Lemon Herb One-Prep Turkey Meatballs & Orzo with Sesame Greens, an original WorkLife Meal Plan recipe

High Protein

Lemon Herb One-Prep Turkey Meatballs & Orzo with Sesame Greens

Bright citrus and garden herbs. This recipe keeps tender turkey meatballs and quick-cooking orzo bright, saucy, and satisfying, organized so one cutting board does most of the work, with an easy extra layer of vegetables. It is designed for dependable prep, familiar groceries, and a calm family dinner.

DinnerLunchPartyHigh-proteinSkilletStovetopMeal prepKid-friendlyFreezer-friendlyMinimal cleanupExtra greens
Prep17 min
Cook26 min
Serves4
Total43 min
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What you’ll need

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup dry whole-wheat orzo
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 3 cups baby greens
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
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Make it happen

Directions

  1. 1

    Combine turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, half 1 lemon, zested and juiced and 2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Shape into 20 meatballs.

  2. 2

    Warm olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs for 6–7 minutes, turning gently.

  3. 3

    Add orzo, broth, and remaining flavor ingredients. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring once.

  4. 4

    Fold in spinach, cover for 2 minutes, and check that the meatballs reach 165°F. Add lemon juice and parsley before serving.

  5. 5

    Wilt the greens in the hot pan for one minute and finish with the sesame seeds.

Estimated per serving

Nutrition at a glance

Recipe makes 4 servings. Values are planning estimates, not medical advice.

1 portion
545calories39gprotein51gcarbs21gfat7gfiber686mgsodium