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Flavorful Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs Recipe

by on February 12, 2025

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Looking for a tasty twist on dinner? You’ve found it! These Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs are full of flavor and healthy ingredients. Packed with ground turkey, fresh spinach, and zesty feta, they’re easy to make and perfect for any meal. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, from mixing to baking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe they won’t forget!

- 1 lb ground turkey - 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Ground turkey alternatives: You can use ground chicken or beef for a different taste. - Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Swap with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. - Dairy-free feta options: Try using tofu or cashew cheese for a dairy-free twist. These ingredients will help you create meatballs that burst with flavor. The spinach adds a fresh touch, and feta gives a nice tang. Don't forget that the spices really bring everything together. If you want to mix it up, try the substitutions listed. They can make this dish fit different diets while keeping it tasty. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for a nice bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. It saves time and effort later. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Here, you will blend the ground turkey, finely chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and breadcrumbs. Add one large egg, three minced garlic cloves, and a quarter cup of finely chopped onion. Now, drizzle in one tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle one teaspoon of dried oregano, along with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. If you like a little kick, add a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix all these ingredients gently with your hands. Be careful not to overmix. You want tender meatballs, not tough ones. Time to form the meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a ball about one inch wide. Place the meatballs on the baking sheet. Make sure to space them evenly. This helps them cook well. If they are too close, they might stick together. Now, it's time to bake. Place the meatballs in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They need to turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of a meatball. If it reads 165°F, they are ready! After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs! To maximize flavor absorption, chop the spinach finely. This helps it blend well with the turkey. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and onion add depth to your meatballs. Don’t forget to let the mixture rest for a few minutes. This allows the breadcrumbs to soak up moisture and flavors. Mixing ingredients requires a gentle touch. Use your hands to combine, but do not overmix. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Just mix until everything is combined. Form the meatballs gently to keep them light and airy. For garnishing, fresh herbs like parsley or basil work well. Sprinkle them over the meatballs right before serving. This adds color and freshness to your dish. Arrange the meatballs on a decorative platter for a nice touch. Serve the meatballs with a warm bowl of marinara sauce. This adds flavor and moisture. You can also place them over whole grain spaghetti. This makes for a hearty meal that is sure to please. If your meatballs fall apart, try adding more breadcrumbs. This helps bind the mixture better. You can also chill the mixture for 30 minutes before forming the balls. This makes them easier to handle. Adjusting seasoning is easy. Taste the mixture before baking. If it needs more salt or spices, add them. Remember, flavors can change after cooking, so don't be shy. Make it your own by tweaking the seasonings to suit your taste. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds more flavor and nutrients compared to frozen. Make sure to chop it finely for better incorporation. Keep Meatballs Moist: Adding a bit of olive oil helps keep the meatballs moist. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough texture. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil or thyme, to personalize your meatballs to your taste. {{image_4}} You can make these meatballs even more fun by adding extra veggies. Try mixing in some finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini. These add color and nutrition. You can also swap the feta cheese. Use mozzarella or goat cheese for a different taste. Each cheese gives a unique twist and flavor. To change the taste, think about Mediterranean herbs. Adding oregano, thyme, or basil can create a fresh profile. You might want to spice things up too. Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for heat. A spicy version can really wake up your taste buds. You have choices for cooking these meatballs. You can pan-fry them for a crispy outside. Just heat some olive oil in a skillet and cook them until brown. Baking is another great option. It’s simple and cuts down on extra fat. You can also use a slow cooker. Just combine the meatballs with sauce and let them cook all day. Each method gives a different texture and taste. To keep your meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps seal in flavor and moisture. If you have a lot, layer them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. You can enjoy your meatballs for 3 to 4 days. To save meatballs for later, freezing is a great option. Start by letting them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Cooked meatballs last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or look discolored, it’s best to toss them. Keeping an eye on your food helps you stay safe and healthy. You can serve these meatballs with many tasty sides. Here are some great options: - Marinara sauce: A classic pairing for dipping. - Whole grain spaghetti: Serve meatballs on top for a filling meal. - Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and flavor. - Quinoa or rice: These grains make a healthy base. - Salad: A fresh green salad complements the meatballs nicely. Each of these sides adds a different taste and texture to your meal. Feel free to mix and match! Yes, you can make these meatballs gluten-free! Here are some options: - Gluten-free breadcrumbs: These are widely available and work great in this recipe. - Oats: Use finely ground oats as a binder instead of breadcrumbs. - Quinoa: Cooked quinoa can also act as a binding agent. Always check the labels to ensure your ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty meatballs! Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time! Here are some tips: - Prep ahead: You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a day before cooking. - Storage: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to bake. - Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a bag. They last up to three months. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your easy meal prep! This blog post covered making tasty spinach feta turkey meatballs. We discussed main ingredients like ground turkey, spinach, and feta cheese. You learned step-by-step preparation, from mixing to baking. We shared tips for cooking and fixing issues. You discovered flavor variations and storage tips to keep meatballs fresh. In conclusion, these meatballs are simple, healthy, and full of flavor. Try them today for a quick meal or prep for the week ahead. Enjoy creating your perfect version!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean turkey and fresh spinach, these meatballs are a nutritious option for any meal.
  2. Flavorful Twist: The addition of feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that elevates the classic meatball.
  3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these meatballs come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Whether served with marinara sauce or over spaghetti, they can fit into various meal themes and occasions.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground turkey

– 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Seasonings and Other Add-ins

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Substitutions and Alternatives

– Ground turkey alternatives: You can use ground chicken or beef for a different taste.

– Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Swap with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.

– Dairy-free feta options: Try using tofu or cashew cheese for a dairy-free twist.

These ingredients will help you create meatballs that burst with flavor. The spinach adds a fresh touch, and feta gives a nice tang. Don’t forget that the spices really bring everything together. If you want to mix it up, try the substitutions listed. They can make this dish fit different diets while keeping it tasty.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for a nice bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. It saves time and effort later.

Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Here, you will blend the ground turkey, finely chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and breadcrumbs. Add one large egg, three minced garlic cloves, and a quarter cup of finely chopped onion.

Now, drizzle in one tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle one teaspoon of dried oregano, along with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. If you like a little kick, add a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

Mix all these ingredients gently with your hands. Be careful not to overmix. You want tender meatballs, not tough ones.

Forming the Meatballs

Time to form the meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a ball about one inch wide.

Place the meatballs on the baking sheet. Make sure to space them evenly. This helps them cook well. If they are too close, they might stick together.

Baking Directions

Now, it’s time to bake. Place the meatballs in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They need to turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of a meatball. If it reads 165°F, they are ready!

After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Techniques

To maximize flavor absorption, chop the spinach finely. This helps it blend well with the turkey. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and onion add depth to your meatballs. Don’t forget to let the mixture rest for a few minutes. This allows the breadcrumbs to soak up moisture and flavors.

Mixing ingredients requires a gentle touch. Use your hands to combine, but do not overmix. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Just mix until everything is combined. Form the meatballs gently to keep them light and airy.

Presentation Tips

For garnishing, fresh herbs like parsley or basil work well. Sprinkle them over the meatballs right before serving. This adds color and freshness to your dish. Arrange the meatballs on a decorative platter for a nice touch.

Serve the meatballs with a warm bowl of marinara sauce. This adds flavor and moisture. You can also place them over whole grain spaghetti. This makes for a hearty meal that is sure to please.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your meatballs fall apart, try adding more breadcrumbs. This helps bind the mixture better. You can also chill the mixture for 30 minutes before forming the balls. This makes them easier to handle.

Adjusting seasoning is easy. Taste the mixture before baking. If it needs more salt or spices, add them. Remember, flavors can change after cooking, so don’t be shy. Make it your own by tweaking the seasonings to suit your taste.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds more flavor and nutrients compared to frozen. Make sure to chop it finely for better incorporation.
  2. Keep Meatballs Moist: Adding a bit of olive oil helps keep the meatballs moist. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough texture.
  3. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
  4. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil or thyme, to personalize your meatballs to your taste.

Variations

Ingredient Modifications

You can make these meatballs even more fun by adding extra veggies. Try mixing in some finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini. These add color and nutrition. You can also swap the feta cheese. Use mozzarella or goat cheese for a different taste. Each cheese gives a unique twist and flavor.

Flavor Profiles

To change the taste, think about Mediterranean herbs. Adding oregano, thyme, or basil can create a fresh profile. You might want to spice things up too. Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for heat. A spicy version can really wake up your taste buds.

Cooking Methods

You have choices for cooking these meatballs. You can pan-fry them for a crispy outside. Just heat some olive oil in a skillet and cook them until brown. Baking is another great option. It’s simple and cuts down on extra fat. You can also use a slow cooker. Just combine the meatballs with sauce and let them cook all day. Each method gives a different texture and taste.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps seal in flavor and moisture. If you have a lot, layer them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. You can enjoy your meatballs for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

To save meatballs for later, freezing is a great option. Start by letting them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Shelf Life

Cooked meatballs last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or look discolored, it’s best to toss them. Keeping an eye on your food helps you stay safe and healthy.

FAQs

What can I serve with Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs?

You can serve these meatballs with many tasty sides. Here are some great options:

– Marinara sauce: A classic pairing for dipping.

– Whole grain spaghetti: Serve meatballs on top for a filling meal.

– Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and flavor.

– Quinoa or rice: These grains make a healthy base.

– Salad: A fresh green salad complements the meatballs nicely.

Each of these sides adds a different taste and texture to your meal. Feel free to mix and match!

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these meatballs gluten-free! Here are some options:

– Gluten-free breadcrumbs: These are widely available and work great in this recipe.

– Oats: Use finely ground oats as a binder instead of breadcrumbs.

– Quinoa: Cooked quinoa can also act as a binding agent.

Always check the labels to ensure your ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty meatballs!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time! Here are some tips:

– Prep ahead: You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a day before cooking.

– Storage: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

– Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a bag. They last up to three months.

When ready, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your easy meal prep!

This blog post covered making tasty spinach feta turkey meatballs. We discussed main ingredients like ground turkey, spinach, and feta cheese. You learned step-by-step preparation, from mixing to baking. We shared tips for cooking and fixing issues. You discovered flavor variations and storage tips to keep meatballs fresh.

In conclusion, these meatballs are simple, healthy, and full of flavor. Try them today for a quick meal or prep for the week ahead. Enjoy creating your perfect versio

- 1 lb ground turkey - 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Ground turkey alternatives: You can use ground chicken or beef for a different taste. - Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Swap with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. - Dairy-free feta options: Try using tofu or cashew cheese for a dairy-free twist. These ingredients will help you create meatballs that burst with flavor. The spinach adds a fresh touch, and feta gives a nice tang. Don't forget that the spices really bring everything together. If you want to mix it up, try the substitutions listed. They can make this dish fit different diets while keeping it tasty. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for a nice bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. It saves time and effort later. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Here, you will blend the ground turkey, finely chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and breadcrumbs. Add one large egg, three minced garlic cloves, and a quarter cup of finely chopped onion. Now, drizzle in one tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle one teaspoon of dried oregano, along with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. If you like a little kick, add a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix all these ingredients gently with your hands. Be careful not to overmix. You want tender meatballs, not tough ones. Time to form the meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a ball about one inch wide. Place the meatballs on the baking sheet. Make sure to space them evenly. This helps them cook well. If they are too close, they might stick together. Now, it's time to bake. Place the meatballs in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They need to turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of a meatball. If it reads 165°F, they are ready! After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs! To maximize flavor absorption, chop the spinach finely. This helps it blend well with the turkey. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and onion add depth to your meatballs. Don’t forget to let the mixture rest for a few minutes. This allows the breadcrumbs to soak up moisture and flavors. Mixing ingredients requires a gentle touch. Use your hands to combine, but do not overmix. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Just mix until everything is combined. Form the meatballs gently to keep them light and airy. For garnishing, fresh herbs like parsley or basil work well. Sprinkle them over the meatballs right before serving. This adds color and freshness to your dish. Arrange the meatballs on a decorative platter for a nice touch. Serve the meatballs with a warm bowl of marinara sauce. This adds flavor and moisture. You can also place them over whole grain spaghetti. This makes for a hearty meal that is sure to please. If your meatballs fall apart, try adding more breadcrumbs. This helps bind the mixture better. You can also chill the mixture for 30 minutes before forming the balls. This makes them easier to handle. Adjusting seasoning is easy. Taste the mixture before baking. If it needs more salt or spices, add them. Remember, flavors can change after cooking, so don't be shy. Make it your own by tweaking the seasonings to suit your taste. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds more flavor and nutrients compared to frozen. Make sure to chop it finely for better incorporation. Keep Meatballs Moist: Adding a bit of olive oil helps keep the meatballs moist. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough texture. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil or thyme, to personalize your meatballs to your taste. {{image_4}} You can make these meatballs even more fun by adding extra veggies. Try mixing in some finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini. These add color and nutrition. You can also swap the feta cheese. Use mozzarella or goat cheese for a different taste. Each cheese gives a unique twist and flavor. To change the taste, think about Mediterranean herbs. Adding oregano, thyme, or basil can create a fresh profile. You might want to spice things up too. Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for heat. A spicy version can really wake up your taste buds. You have choices for cooking these meatballs. You can pan-fry them for a crispy outside. Just heat some olive oil in a skillet and cook them until brown. Baking is another great option. It’s simple and cuts down on extra fat. You can also use a slow cooker. Just combine the meatballs with sauce and let them cook all day. Each method gives a different texture and taste. To keep your meatballs fresh, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps seal in flavor and moisture. If you have a lot, layer them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. You can enjoy your meatballs for 3 to 4 days. To save meatballs for later, freezing is a great option. Start by letting them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Cooked meatballs last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or look discolored, it’s best to toss them. Keeping an eye on your food helps you stay safe and healthy. You can serve these meatballs with many tasty sides. Here are some great options: - Marinara sauce: A classic pairing for dipping. - Whole grain spaghetti: Serve meatballs on top for a filling meal. - Roasted vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and flavor. - Quinoa or rice: These grains make a healthy base. - Salad: A fresh green salad complements the meatballs nicely. Each of these sides adds a different taste and texture to your meal. Feel free to mix and match! Yes, you can make these meatballs gluten-free! Here are some options: - Gluten-free breadcrumbs: These are widely available and work great in this recipe. - Oats: Use finely ground oats as a binder instead of breadcrumbs. - Quinoa: Cooked quinoa can also act as a binding agent. Always check the labels to ensure your ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty meatballs! Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time! Here are some tips: - Prep ahead: You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a day before cooking. - Storage: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to bake. - Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a bag. They last up to three months. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your easy meal prep! This blog post covered making tasty spinach feta turkey meatballs. We discussed main ingredients like ground turkey, spinach, and feta cheese. You learned step-by-step preparation, from mixing to baking. We shared tips for cooking and fixing issues. You discovered flavor variations and storage tips to keep meatballs fresh. In conclusion, these meatballs are simple, healthy, and full of flavor. Try them today for a quick meal or prep for the week ahead. Enjoy creating your perfect version!

Spinach Feta Turkey Meatballs

Delicious and healthy meatballs made with ground turkey, fresh spinach, and feta cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To simplify cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together the ground turkey, finely chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, and finely chopped onion.
  • Drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes over the mixture.
  • With clean hands, gently combine all the ingredients, taking care not to overmix which could lead to tough meatballs.
  • Shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs, placing them evenly on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each ball to allow for even cooking.
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. They should appear golden brown and be cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (75°C).
  • After baking, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Arrange the meatballs on a decorative platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve with marinara sauce or over spaghetti.
Keyword feta, healthy, meatballs, spinach, turkey

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