Protein Balls

Recently, Rich and Christen hosted a family party for the kids' birthdays. They served these Protein Balls, which are meatless and delicious. So this year for Easter, I made the Protein Balls. They were a hit. And this Easter we had great weather and a visit from Noah's fire truck.

The Protein Balls are quite simple to make. The ingredients can be mixed and the balls formed in advance, then just refrigerate them until ready to bake. The recipe calls for the sauce to be put on the balls while baking, but it is not necessary, especially when some kids prefer having the protein balls with ketchup, instead of the fancy sauce. The meatballs would also be great with BBQ sauce or mustard. Also, as a shortcut, I used onion powder and garlic powder, which worked out fine.

Protein Balls 

• 1 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 3/4 cup ground walnuts
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 finely chopped onion
• 1/2 Tbsp. sage
• 3/4 cup grated cheese
• 1 1/2 pressed garlic clove
• 1/8 cup minced parsley
• 4 eggs

Mix together all ingredients. Form into walnut-sized balls and place on baking sheet. Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes, turning the meatballs at least once. If desired, cover with sauce halfway through the baking process or serve sauce on the side.

Sauce

• 1/4 cup oil
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 3/4 cup apricot jam
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp. grated onion
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. oregano
• 3-4 drops hot sauce

Mix together all ingredients. Refrigerate sauce until ready to use.