Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 cup leafy greens (spinach, kale, or Swiss chard), finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
  • 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs or almond flour for coating
  • Olive oil spray for baking

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped leafy greens, grated carrots, green onions, nutritional yeast (if using), egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Using your hands, form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Once all the bites are formed, roll each one in the bread crumbs or almond flour until fully coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when baked.
  5. Lightly spray the tops of the bites with olive oil using an oil spray bottle. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm!