The Meatball Salad from Harry Caray's features tender homemade Italian meatballs atop a bed of fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, all drizzled with a tangy Italian dressing for a hearty and refreshing flavor combination.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs
- Salad spinner
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Salad serving platter or large plate
- Serving tongs or salad servers
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup cucumber
- 1/2 small red onion
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing
Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork to achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance in your meatballs. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley enhance the savory profile, while breadcrumbs and milk keep the meatballs moist and tender. Make sure to finely mince the garlic for even distribution throughout the mixture. When selecting salad greens, choose a crisp and fresh blend to complement the rich meatballs and tangy Italian dressing. Your Meatball Salad from Harry Caray's copycat menu will shine with high-quality, fresh ingredients for an authentic taste experience.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, milk, egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Form mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle or brush meatballs lightly with olive oil.
- Bake meatballs for 18-22 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
- While meatballs bake, wash and dry mixed salad greens using a salad spinner.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half.
- Slice cucumber and halve slices if desired.
- Thinly slice red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Drizzle salad with Italian dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Arrange salad on a large serving platter or plate.
- Transfer cooked meatballs to a skillet or sauté pan, crisping in olive oil for 1-2 minutes if desired.
- Place hot meatballs on top of the salad.
- Serve immediately using salad tongs or servers.
Substitution
The Meatball Salad from Harry Caray's copycat menu combines homemade Italian meatballs with fresh mixed greens and vegetables, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. If pork is not available, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing texture. Breadcrumbs can be swapped with crushed crackers or oats to accommodate dietary preferences or pantry availability. When preparing the salad, ensure your greens are well-drained using a salad spinner to prevent sogginess. You can toss the Italian dressing with the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and meatballs.
Tips
Your meatball mixture should be handled gently to avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs dense and tough. Use parchment paper or foil on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Washing and thoroughly drying the salad greens with a salad spinner keeps the salad crisp and prevents the dressing from becoming watery. For best flavor, crisp the meatballs briefly in a hot skillet after baking before adding them to the salad.
Nutritions
The Meatball Salad from Harry Caray's provides a balanced mix of protein from the ground beef and pork meatballs, essential for muscle repair and growth. Fresh mixed greens offer dietary fiber and essential vitamins like A and K, supporting digestion and immune function. Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers contribute antioxidants and hydration, while the Parmesan cheese adds calcium for bone health. Your meal is enhanced with olive oil and Italian dressing, supplying heart-healthy fats to complete this nutritious dish.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs and salad ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep the meatballs refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days, reheating thoroughly before serving. Your salad greens and vegetables should be stored in the fridge and dressed just before eating to preserve crispness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs without sacrificing flavor. Swap the Italian dressing with a balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon herb dressing to add a bright, zesty twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace meatballs with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for added texture and protein. Experiment with adding fresh basil or oregano to the salad for aromatic complexity that complements the meatballs.
Allergies
The Meatball Salad contains common allergens such as milk from Parmesan cheese and milk added directly, eggs used as a binder in the meatballs, and breadcrumbs that may contain gluten. If you have allergies to dairy, eggs, or gluten, you should exercise caution when consuming this dish or ask for ingredient alternatives. Cross-contamination risks may exist depending on kitchen practices, so informing your server about your allergies is recommended for your safety.
Why this recipe?
Harry Caray's Meatball Salad is loved for its perfectly seasoned Italian-style meatballs, paired with fresh greens and a tangy, house-made dressing that creates a balanced flavor profile. The dish combines hearty protein with crisp vegetables, offering a satisfying yet light meal option. Many enjoy the rich aroma and authentic taste that capture the essence of traditional Italian comfort food. Trying to make a copycat recipe lets you bring this unique dining experience into your own kitchen, ensuring freshness and customization to your taste.