# 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 (for star toppers)
18 - Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
# How To Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, mix ground meat, minced onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and milk until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
03 - Form the mixture into 48 small meatballs, approximately ¾ to 1 inch in diameter.
04 - Arrange meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Allow to cool slightly.
05 - While baking, slice the yellow bell pepper into small star shapes using a mini cutter or sharp knife.
06 - Thread each pretzel stick or rosemary sprig with a cherry tomato at the base, then 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 finely chopped chives or parsley over the assembled trees. Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately for optimal crispness.
