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!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

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

Directions

Step 1

Place the fish fillets in a food processor and pulse until finely minced. Alternatively, finely chop the fish by hand.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut (approximately 20-24 balls). Set aside.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

Add the remaining minced garlic and red chili flakes (if using) and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water or fish stock, sugar, and remaining 0.5 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Stir well.

Step 8

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add the fresh basil leaves, stirring them into the sauce.

Step 9

Carefully place the seared fish balls into the sauce, spooning some sauce over the top to coat them.

Step 10

Cover the skillet and let the fish balls simmer in the sauce for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through.

Step 11

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

Serving size	1654.8 grams (1654.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1418

Total Fat 54.00g	69%
Saturated Fat 15.50g	78%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 300mg	100%
Sodium 4984mg	217%
Total Carbohydrate 100.60g	37%
Dietary Fiber 26.80g	96%
Total Sugars 28.20g
Protein 141.10g	282%

Vitamin D 1000IU	5000%
Calcium 1424mg	110%
Iron 25mg	138%
Potassium 4647mg	99%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.5%

Protein: 38.8%

Carbs: 27.7%