Fish Balls in Tomato Basil Sauce
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with these savory Fish Balls in Tomato Basil Sauce, a dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. Delicate white fish fillets are combined with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh parsley to create perfectly tender, golden-seared fish balls that are simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onion, and the vibrant aroma of fresh basil. Whether served over pasta, fluffy rice, or paired with warm crusty bread, this versatile recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and light. Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal choice for quick yet impressive meals, seamlessly blending Mediterranean flavors with a touch of spice from optional red chili flakes. Perfect for seafood lovers, this recipe is a must-try for those seeking a flavorful and healthy twist on classic meatballs. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and vibrant flavors that make this dish unforgettable!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 g White fish fillets (e.g., cod, haddock)
- 60 g Breadcrumbs
- 1 large Egg
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp Parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 400 g Canned crushed tomatoes
- 10 Fresh basil leaves
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
- 0.25 tsp Red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 120 ml Water or fish stock
Instructions
Place the fish fillets in a food processor and pulse until finely minced. Alternatively, finely chop the fish by hand.
In a large bowl, combine the minced fish, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 minced garlic clove, Parmesan, parsley, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut (approximately 20-24 balls). Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fish balls in batches and sear them on all sides until lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the remaining minced garlic and red chili flakes (if using) and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water or fish stock, sugar, and remaining 0.5 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Stir well.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add the fresh basil leaves, stirring them into the sauce.
Carefully place the seared fish balls into the sauce, spooning some sauce over the top to coat them.
Cover the skillet and let the fish balls simmer in the sauce for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the fish balls in tomato basil sauce over cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
325 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.2 g | 17% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 122 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 1025 mg | 45% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19.9 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.6 g | ||
| Protein | 32.1 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.5 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 209 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 696 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
