Getting more veggies into your family’s meals doesn’t have to mean negotiating bites of salad. These 7-plant-point turkey meatballs are packed with flavor, protein, and a rainbow of nutrients. Whether you’re feeding a picky eater, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a new dinner idea, this recipe is a simple way to support skin, gut, and overall health. And yes, they’re just as easy to make in the Instant Pot as they are in the oven (because we love options!).
TL;DR:
- Why these meatballs work: They’re packed with protein and 7 plant points, making it easy to boost gut health and support calmer skin without picky-eater battles.
- Easy + flexible: Simple ingredients, customizable veggies, and cook them in the oven or Instant Pot.
- Result: A kid-approved, eczema-friendly meal that sneaks in more plants with zero drama for healthier skin.
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Ingredients
- 2 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 white onion, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves
- 5 tablespoons pesto
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional but highly encouraged: 1/2 cup diced or shredded veggies (such as shredded carrots, yellow zucchini, green zucchini, mushrooms, green pepper, yellow pepper) — aim for 7 plant points!
Instructions
- Prep the Veggies:
Dice or shred all your chosen vegetables and onions into small, even pieces. The more variety, the more plant points you’ll rack up! - Mix Everything Together:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, diced onions, pesto, salt, pepper, and your selection of diced veggies. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. - Shape the Meatballs:
Using an ice cream scooper, portion the mixture into balls and place them on a cookie sheet. This helps keep the size consistent for even cooking.
Cooking Options:
- Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Instapot: Pour a layer of tomato sauce into the bottom of your Instapot. Place the meatballs on top of the sauce. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
How to Serve These Meatballs:
- Toss with your favorite clean tomato sauce and gluten-free pasta
- Serve over cauliflower rice or mashed sweet potatoes
- Pack them in a lunchbox with a side of sliced cucumbers and hummus
This veggie-packed meatball recipe is more than a dinner win, it’s a small step toward helping your family eat more plants, with no mealtime drama. Every added veggie is a plant point your skin and gut will thank you for!
If you’re looking for more recipes that support skin healing and reduce inflammation, we’ve got you covered! Our curated nutrition guides offer easy, kid-approved meals that are gentle on the skin and gut, and most importantly are delicious!
Check out our meal guides below:
- Eczema-Friendly Breakfast Guide: Delicious and nourishing breakfast ideas to start your day right.
- Eczema-Friendly Lunch Guide: Simple, balanced meals perfect for lunchboxes or at-home meals.
Get inspired with meals that will support your family’s health!
Dr. Ana-Maria Temple
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