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Healthy BBQ Turkey Meatball Skewers Recipe with Charred Pineapple for Calorie Deficit

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These Healthy Calorie Deficit BBQ Turkey Meatball Skewers with Charred Pineapple combine lean turkey meatballs with smoky BBQ glaze and caramelized pineapple for a flavorful, low-calorie meal perfect for summer grilling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using)
  • Olive oil spray
  • Optional: a squeeze of fresh lime juice for serving
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine 1 pound lean ground turkey, 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 beaten large egg, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Wet your hands lightly and roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, about 16-18 meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
  3. Cut fresh pineapple into 1-inch chunks. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Alternate threading 2 meatballs and 2 pineapple chunks onto each skewer.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Set aside.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high (375-400°F). Lightly spray or brush skewers with olive oil.
  6. Place skewers on the grill, turning every 3-4 minutes. After the first flip, brush on a layer of the BBQ glaze. Continue turning and glazing until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and pineapple is nicely charred, about 12-15 minutes.
  7. Remove skewers from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep meatballs tender. Flip skewers every 3-4 minutes and brush glaze gradually to prevent burning. Use a food thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F. For indoor cooking, use a grill pan or broiler. Pineapple caramelizes quickly; watch closely to avoid bitterness. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat best under a broiler or in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ, turkey meatballs, skewers, healthy, low calorie, grilled pineapple, summer recipe, calorie deficit, lean protein

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/healthy-bbq-turkey-meatball-skewers-recipe-with-charred-pineapple-for-calorie-deficit/