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Quinoa Veggie Bites

Nutritious and customizable quinoa veggie bites that make a fantastic snack or appetizer, perfect for meal prep.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 20 bites
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (approx. ½ cup uncooked) Ensure it’s cooled.
  • 1 cup finely grated carrots (about 1 large carrot) Adds natural sweetness, color, and Vitamin A.
  • 1 cup finely grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini) Squeeze out excess moisture.
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion (about ½ small onion) Provides a savory flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth.
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) Or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs Use gluten-free if needed.
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro Adds freshness.
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten Use flax eggs for a vegan option.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Or Italian seasoning.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Or to taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Or to taste.
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil For pan-frying, optional if baking.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the quinoa according to package directions and let it cool completely.
  2. Finely grate the carrots and zucchini, squeezing out excess moisture. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled cooked quinoa, grated carrots, squeezed zucchini, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
  4. Add shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley or cilantro, beaten eggs or flax eggs, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Form small patties or balls using a cookie scoop or your hands, about 1-2 tablespoons each.
  2. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. For pan-frying, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Notes

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.