# What you'll need:
→ Meatballs
01 - 1.1 lb ground beef or half beef, half pork
02 - 1 small onion, finely minced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1.4 oz breadcrumbs
06 - 1.4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
08 - 1 tsp dried oregano
09 - ¾ tsp salt
10 - ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
11 - 2 tbsp milk
12 - 2 tbsp olive oil, for baking or frying
→ Assembly and Decoration
13 - 24 cherry tomatoes
14 - 24 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
15 - 48 fresh basil leaves
16 - 24 pretzel sticks or sturdy rosemary sprigs
17 - 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into small star shapes
18 - Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional)
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, minced onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix gently until just combined.
03 - Form the mixture into 48 small meatballs, approximately ¾–1 inch in diameter each.
04 - Arrange meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush with olive oil, then bake for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Allow to cool slightly.
05 - While meatballs bake, slice the yellow bell pepper into star shapes using a mini cutter or a sharp knife.
06 - Thread a pretzel stick or rosemary sprig starting with a cherry tomato at the base, followed by a basil leaf, a mozzarella ball, another basil leaf, and stack two mini meatballs on top. Finish by placing a bell pepper star on the tip.
07 - Optionally sprinkle with finely chopped chives or parsley for a festive appearance. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
