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What you eat, and how much, is so important for your health and your waistline.

Cooking healthier food at home is a small, simple change that can have big benefits in the long run. We're showcasing easy recipes to help you on your way.

Give this one a go to get started today – and make sure to check back next month for another. Let's do this!

Eyeball meatballs – Halloween recipe

These meatballs make a tasty Halloween meal that looks you straight in the eye!

Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 25 mins
Serves 4

Nutritional information

Per serving:

  • 1,673kJ / 396kcals
  • 36.5g protein
  • 5g fat, of which 2g saturates
  • 48.5g carbohydrate, of which 11.1g sugars
  • 5.7g fibre
  • 0.5g salt
2 meatballs with tomatoes as eyes, on a bed of pasta

Ingredients

  • 400g lean minced turkey breast
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 teaspoons dried mixed herbs
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 400g chopped tomatoes
  • Half a stock cube (reduced-salt vegetable or chicken stock), with 150ml boiled water
  • 1 pinch ground black pepper
  • 200g green tagliatelle or spaghetti
  • 8 reduced-fat mini mozzarella balls
  • 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, to garnish

Method

  1. Mix together the minced turkey with half the chopped onion, all the carrot and mixed herbs. Season with black pepper.

    Information:

    You can also use extra-lean pork mince or extra lean minced beef to make the meatballs.

  2. Form the mixture into 8 meatballs. Wet your hands with a bit of water to prevent the mixture from sticking!

  3. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan, then add the meatballs. Fry gently, turning occasionally, until lightly browned.

    Information:

    Stir the meatballs gently so that they don't break up.

  4. Separately mix the stock cube in water, stiring until dissolved. Then add the remaining onion, tomatoes and the stock to the pan. Season with black pepper. Heat until boiling, then reduce the heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Meanwhile, cook the tagliatelle for 10 to 12 minutes in gently boiling water.

  6. Share the tagliatelle between 4 serving plates and serve with the meatballs and sauce. Top each meatball with a mozzarella ball, letting it melt for a few moments, then press the cherry tomatoes on top to look like eyeballs.

    Information:

    Instead of cherry tomatoes, you can also use small radishes, cut in half.

  7. Garnish with basil leaves, then serve.

More mealtime inspiration

We have loads of tasty recipes for you and your family.

Whether you're after a healthier way to kickstart the day, simple ideas to banish boring sandwiches at lunch, or quick and easy mid-week dinners, there's something for everyone.

See more healthy recipes
Mixed-veg rice made with tomatoes, peas, carrots and peppers.

Dietary advice

Better Health cannot provide individual dietary advice.

If you or someone you care for has special dietary requirements, medical needs or an eating disorder, please seek advice from a registered healthcare professional.

If you would like more information on eating disorders, Beat has lots of useful advice for adults and children.