# Components:
→ 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 - 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
06 - 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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 (for star toppers)
18 - Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
# Directions:
01 - Set the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, mix ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk until just combined without overworking.
03 - Form the mixture into 48 small meatballs, approximately ¾ to 1 inch in diameter.
04 - Arrange meatballs on the baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil.
05 - Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and fully cooked. Allow to cool slightly.
06 - Cut the yellow bell pepper into small star shapes using a mini cutter or knife.
07 - On each pretzel stick or rosemary sprig, skewer a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, a mozzarella ball, another basil leaf, and stack two meatballs on top. Finish with a bell pepper star and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
08 - Arrange assembled trees on a platter and serve immediately to maintain crispness.
