Crispy Cheesy Quinoa Bites
Golden, crispy quinoa bites packed with cheese, veggies, and herbs. High in protein and fiber, they’re easy to prep and bake, making them a nutritious, bite-sized snack or appetizer suitable for everyday cooking.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa cooled
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup grated mozzarella cheddar, or marble cheese
- ¼ –½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp seasoning salt e.g., Lawry’s
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Quinoa Base: Cook your quinoa according to package directions, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl and allow it to cool completely; this ensures the bites hold their shape when baked and prevents a mushy texture.
- Mix the Egg and Cheese Binder: In a small bowl, lightly whisk the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy, then fold in all the cheeses, creating a creamy binder that will help the quinoa and vegetables stick together while adding rich, savory flavor.
- Incorporate Vegetables and Herbs: Add the shredded carrot, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and cilantro to the quinoa mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure each bite is packed with even distribution of flavor, color, and nutrients.
- Add Seasoning and Flour: Sprinkle in the seasoning salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and the measured flour, then fold gently until everything is well combined; the flour acts as a natural binder, ensuring your bites stay crispy and cohesive during baking.
- Shape the Bites: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into tight, uniform balls about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter; spacing them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet prevents sticking and allows for even browning.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bites for 25–35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy, rotating the sheet halfway through to ensure uniform baking and a crunchy exterior with a soft, cheesy interior.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the quinoa bites from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet; serve warm as a satisfying snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Notes
- Quinoa Tip: Leftover quinoa works perfectly, but freshly cooked and cooled quinoa provides the best texture.
- Cheese Options: Use your favorite combination of mozzarella, cheddar, or marble cheese; parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Swap or add finely chopped zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Binding Tips: Make sure eggs are well whisked and flour is evenly mixed to prevent crumbly bites.
- Baking Precision: For extra crispiness, rotate the baking sheet halfway through and allow bites to cool slightly before serving.