Description
- Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer packed with the goodness of quinoa, broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese. These bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and offer a perfect balance of flavors. They make a great side dish or a wholesome, kid-friendly snack that’s loaded with protein, fiber, and veggies. Perfect for meal prep, serving at parties, or even as a meatless main!
Ingredients
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1 cup cooked quinoa
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1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
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2 eggs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
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Prepare the ingredients:
Cook the quinoa according to package directions and let it cool slightly. While the quinoa is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli until tender (about 3-4 minutes) and then chop it into small pieces. -
Mix the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the eggs and mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to help it bind. -
Form the bites:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper. Using your hands, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. -
Bake:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can flip them halfway through for even browning. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a side of ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
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Make-ahead option: These quinoa bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
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Freezing option: You can freeze the uncooked quinoa bites on a baking sheet, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
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Vegan option: To make these bites vegan, replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serving Size:
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg