Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties: A Healthy & Flavorful Snack
If you’re looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make snack or meal, look no further than these Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties. Packed with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, broccoli, carrots, and cheese, these patties are a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a cheesy, savory bite. The best part? They’re super simple to prepare and are a fantastic option for meal prep, making them a versatile choice for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
In this recipe, you’ll combine the goodness of quinoa with nutrient-rich vegetables and a bit of cheese for added flavor. Whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals or just want a delicious and satisfying veggie patty, these Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
For more inspiration on healthy quinoa recipes, check out:
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
These Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties are made with wholesome ingredients that come together quickly. The savory flavor comes from the combination of broccoli, carrots, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and quinoa binds everything together.
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Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties Recipe | Healthy & Delicious Veggie Patties
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 patties 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties are a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make snack or meal. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, vibrant broccoli, and sweet carrots, they are bound together with eggs and melted reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Perfect for meal prep or as a tasty addition to any meal, these patties are crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and full of healthy vegetables!
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups carrots, finely chopped or shredded
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the broccoli and carrots to the pan and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed onion, broccoli, and carrots.
- Add the eggs, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed.
- Form the Patties:
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter). You should get about 8-10 patties depending on the size.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Add a little olive oil to the pan if needed to prevent sticking.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when flipping to avoid breaking the patties.
- Serve:
- Serve the cheesy broccoli quinoa patties warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or fresh herbs if desired. These patties are great on their own or served with a side of dipping sauce or salad.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: Since quinoa is naturally gluten-free, this recipe is already gluten-free.
- Cheese Substitution: If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based cheese that melts well as a substitute for cheddar cheese.
- Storage: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to maintain crispiness. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen patties, bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Meal Prep, Vegetarian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties
Instructions:
- Prepare the ingredients: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the broccoli and carrots and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Combine with quinoa: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed onion, broccoli, and carrots. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before adding the eggs, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Form the patties: Once the mixture is fully mixed, form it into small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter) with your hands. You should get around 10-12 patties, depending on the size.
- Cook the patties: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Cook the patties in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish. Enjoy!
Advanced Techniques
1. Add More Veggies
Want to make your patties even more veggie-packed? You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. Just make sure to finely chop or shred them to ensure the patties hold together well.
2. Use Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will help bind the patties together while keeping them gluten-free.
3. Try Different Cheeses
While reduced-fat cheddar cheese adds a great flavor to these patties, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or even vegan cheese for a plant-based option.
4. Bake Instead of Frying
For a healthier version, you can bake these patties instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden and crispy.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Making a batch of Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties in advance is a great way to have a healthy snack or meal ready to go. Here are some tips for storing and maintaining them:
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating:
To reheat, simply place the patties in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
This Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties recipe is highly adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. Here are some ways to customize the recipe:
1. Dairy-Free
For a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast instead of the cheddar cheese. Nutritional yeast will provide a cheesy flavor while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
2. Egg-Free
To make the patties egg-free, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes to thicken) or chia seeds as a binding agent.
3. Gluten-Free
If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, be sure to use certified gluten-free quinoa and gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
4. Vegan
To make these patties vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. This way, you can still enjoy the cheesy flavor while keeping the recipe plant-based.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I make these patties in advance?
Yes, you can make the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. They reheat well and are perfect for meal prepping.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli and carrots?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and carrots, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe to avoid soggy patties.
3. Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes will give you a healthier version with less oil. Just flip the patties halfway through for an even cook.
4. How can I make these patties spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before forming the patties.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties are an easy, flavorful, and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or main course. With the goodness of quinoa, broccoli, and carrots, these patties are a great way to sneak in extra veggies while satisfying your cravings for something savory and cheesy. Plus, they’re easy to customize to fit a variety of dietary preferences, so everyone can enjoy them.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick and satisfying meal, these Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Patties are a must-try. They’re not only delicious but also a great way to get a healthy dose of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.