When most people think of meatballs, they usually picture beef, pork, or chicken. However, there is an amazing recipe that uses octopus as the main ingredient. Octopus meatballs in red sauce are not only delicious and flavorful but also packed with nutrients that are good for the body. If you’re looking for a new and exciting dish to add to your regular meals, consider giving this recipe a try.
Ingredients
For the meatballs, you will need:
– 1 pound of octopus
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the red sauce, you will need:
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of tomato paste
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Clean the octopus and remove the skin and beak. Chop the meat into small pieces and set them aside.
3. In a bowl, mix the egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus meat and mix until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
6. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the red sauce.
7. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
8. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft and translucent.
9. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
10. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes or until it thickens.
11. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the red sauce.
12. Cook the meatballs in the sauce for about 5 minutes or until they are fully coated and heated through.
13. Serve the octopus meatballs in red sauce with your favorite side dishes.
Health Benefits
Octopus meat is low in fat and calories but high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve heart health and reduce inflammation in the body. Octopus also contains vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are essential for energy production and red blood cell formation.
The tomato-based red sauce is also beneficial for health as tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against cancer and heart disease. The sauce also contains vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which are important for maintaining a healthy diet.
Conclusion
Octopus meatballs in red sauce are a unique and delicious dish that is easy to make and packed with nutrients. It’s a great source of protein and other essential vitamins and minerals while being low in fat and calories. The red sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, making it a perfect meal for the whole family. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something different, give this recipe a try and enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal.