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Quinoa Veggie Bites – Healthy, Crispy & Easy Snack or Appetizer

These Quinoa Veggie Bites are the perfect healthy snack or appetizer! Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs, they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally irresistible. Easy to make and great for meal prep, parties, or family-friendly snacking anytime!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Mediterranean, Vegetarian
Servings 16 bites (depending on size)
Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Food processor (optional)
  • Baking sheet or muffin tin / silicone molds
  • Non-stick skillet (for pan-frying)
  • Air fryer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup peas
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 eggs (or 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water for vegan)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan alternative)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Olive oil spray (for baking / air frying)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Quinoa and Vegetables:
    Cook quinoa according to package instructions; let cool.
    Chop or grate vegetables finely. Steam moisture-heavy vegetables like broccoli if desired.
  • Make the Mixture:
    In a large bowl, combine quinoa, vegetables, eggs (or flaxseed mixture), cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
    Mix well until evenly combined.
  • Form Bites:
    Shape mixture into small balls or patties (about 2 inches each).
    Optional: lightly coat with additional breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Cook:
    Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake on a lined tray or greased muffin tin for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
    Pan-Fried: Heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook bites 3–5 minutes per side until golden.
    Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Cook bites 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
  • Serve:
    Pair with dips like marinara, tzatziki, or sriracha mayo.
    Serve as a side with salads, soups, or grain bowls.

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days; freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Oven (350°F/175°C, 8–10 min), air fryer (375°F/190°C, 5–7 min), microwave (30–60 sec).
  • Variations: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers. Swap cheese and eggs for vegan options. Spice with cumin, chili powder, or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
  • Tip: Press mixture firmly when forming bites to ensure they hold together.
Keyword Gluten-Free, healthy snacks, kid-friendly snacks, meal prep vegetarian recipe, Quinoa bites, veggie bites