Mexican Meatball Soup

From Real Simple Magazine, April 2o10 Issue

This was a big hit with our family. I mean, what kid (or adult for that matter) doesn't love meatballs? You can also adjust the heat level by the level of salsa you pick. I went for a medium that ended up being too spicy for the kids. Luckily they were happy with the meatballs and avocado.

1 pound ground beef (I think ground chicken/turkey may work well too. And it'd be healthier/lighter)

2 scallions, chopped

1 cup tortilla chips, crushed plus more for serving

1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus sprigs for serving

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Kosher salt and black pepper

3 cups mild jarred salsa

1 avocado, cut into pieces

Heat broiler. In a bowl, combine the beef, scallions, tortilla chips, cilantro, cumin, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Shape into 1" balls (about 24) and place on a broilerproof baing sheet. Broil until beginning to brown 5-6 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a blender, puree the salsa with 1 cup water. Transfer to a large saucepan and add 2 cups water (I used a can of chicken broth instead) and bring to a boil. Add the meatballs, reduce heat and simmer until cooked through, 2-4 minutes.

Serve soup with the avocado, cilantro sprigs and tortilla chips. (I think it'd also be good with other typical taco condiments like sour cream and cheese. It was kind of a twist on tortilla soup - yum!)

Last week's chicken dinner got us through two nights and we ate out quite a bit with my family in town so it'll be a roll-over week! On top of that, we already have dinner plans with friends one night this week. I have 3 recipes from my latest issue of Real Simple magazine (they haven't posted them online yet) this week. Reviews to come next week. :)


Leftover Paella

Cheesy Baked Spinach and Artichokes

Mexican Meatball Soup

Hamburgers with Carrot and Apple Slaw with Raisins

Ginger Noodles with Tofu

Hoisin Cashew Beef in Lettuce Wraps