Mediterranean Lamb Meatball Pasta with Mint Pesto

This recipe combines tender lamb meatballs with a refreshing mint pesto and fresh pasta, creating a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish. The combination of savory lamb, tangy feta, and the aromatic pesto sauce makes for a truly unique dinner experience.

Cook time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp fresh mint chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
• 0.5 tsp ground cumin
• 0.5 tsp ground coriander
• 0 salt to taste
• 0 black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves
• 0.25 cup pine nuts
• 0.33 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 piece lemon juice juice of 1 lemon
• 0.5 cup olive oil
• 0 salt to taste
• 0 black pepper to taste
• 12 oz pappardelle or tagliatelle pasta
• 0 salt to taste
• 0 mint pesto prepared
• 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 0.25 cup Kalamata olives sliced
• 0 lamb meatballs cooked and prepared
• 0.25 cup feta cheese crumbled for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, garlic, mint, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a food processor, combine the mint, basil, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
5. Add the mint pesto to the cooked pasta, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Add the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and cooked lamb meatballs, tossing gently to combine.
6. Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with crumbled feta cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the refreshing, bold flavors!