Lentil Meatballs with Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce
These lentil meatballs are a healthy vegetarian alternative to traditional meatballs, packed with lentils, mushrooms, herbs, and parmesan for rich savoury flavour.
Served in a roasted cherry tomato sauce and finished with fresh basil and rocket, this dish is wholesome, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in plant-based protein
- Healthy vegetarian comfort food
- Rich roasted tomato flavour
- Great for meal prep
- Naturally filling and satisfying
Ingredients
For the Roasted Tomato Sauce
- Cherry truss tomatoes
- Fresh thyme
- Garlic
- Olive oil
For the Lentil Meatballs
- Onion
- Celery
- Mushrooms
- Lentils
- Fresh basil
- Brown rice
- Coconut flour
- Lemon rind
- Parmesan
To Serve
- Rocket leaves
- Extra parmesan
- Fresh basil sprigs
How to Make Lentil Meatballs
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Place tomatoes in a baking dish.
Sprinkle with thyme and garlic.
Drizzle with olive oil and roast until soft and juicy.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Cook onion and celery until softened.
Add mushrooms and garlic and cook until golden.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Process lentils into coarse crumbs.
Add:
- Mushroom mixture
- Basil
- Brown rice
- Coconut flour
- Lemon rind
- Parmesan
Mix until combined.
Roll into meatballs.
Step 4: Brown the Meatballs
Cook meatballs in a frying pan until golden on all sides.
Step 5: Bake
Add meatballs to the roasted tomato sauce.
Bake uncovered until heated through.
Top with:
- Fresh basil
- Extra parmesan
Serve with rocket.
Tips for the Best Lentil Meatballs
- Don’t over-process the lentils
- Chilling the mixture helps shaping
- Use fresh basil for the best flavour
- Roasting tomatoes creates a sweeter sauce
- Coconut flour helps bind the meatballs naturally
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Fresh rocket salad
- Garlic bread
- Pasta or zucchini noodles
- Steamed vegetables
- Crusty sourdough
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
- Freeze meatballs for up to 2 months
- Reheat gently in the oven or stovetop sauce
Recipe Variations
Vegan Version
Replace parmesan with vegan cheese.
Extra Protein
Add chopped walnuts or quinoa.
Spicier Sauce
Add chilli flakes before roasting.
Final Thoughts
These lentil meatballs with roasted cherry tomato sauce are healthy, comforting, and packed with flavour. They’re a fantastic vegetarian dinner option that feels hearty and satisfying while still being light and nutritious.