If you’re looking for a snack that’s healthy, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors, Savory Broccoli Quinoa Fritters with Spicy Sriracha Aioli are the perfect choice. These crispy bites combine nutrient-rich quinoa, tender broccoli, and smoky seasonings, all paired with a creamy, spicy aioli. They’re easy to make, loaded with protein, and perfect for everything from meal prep to party platters.
Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Quinoa Fritters
- Healthy Ingredients: These fritters are gluten-free, vegan, and loaded with plant-based protein and fiber.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.
- Flavor-Packed: Smoky paprika, tangy lemon, and creamy aioli elevate these fritters to the next level.
Ingredients for Broccoli Quinoa Fritters and Sriracha Aioli
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Quinoa | 1 cup |
Filtered water | 2 cups (divided) |
Frozen broccoli florets | 2 cups |
Flaxseed meal | 3 tablespoons |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Almond meal or almond flour | ½ cup |
Nutritional yeast flakes | ¼ cup |
Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Sea salt | 1¼ to 1½ teaspoons |
Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
Black pepper | To taste |
For the Sriracha Aioli
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Vegan mayonnaise | ⅓ cup |
Sriracha | 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness.
- Combine the rinsed quinoa with 1½ cups of filtered water in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
2. Steam the Broccoli
- In a small pot, bring ½ cup water to a simmer.
- Add the frozen broccoli florets and steam for 3–5 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain and chop the broccoli into small pieces.
3. Make the Flax Egg
- In a small bowl, mix the flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
4. Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli, flax egg, olive oil, almond meal, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, smoked paprika, sea salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
5. Shape the Fritters
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small patties or balls.
- Arrange the fritters on the baking sheet.
6. Bake the Fritters
- Bake the fritters for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- They’re ready when golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Make the Sriracha Aioli
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise and Sriracha.
- Adjust the Sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the fritters warm with a side of Sriracha aioli for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Fritters
- Steam Your Broccoli: This helps retain its vibrant green color and softens it for easy mixing.
- Ensure Binding: If the mixture is too crumbly, add more flaxseed meal or almond meal.
- Adjust Spiciness: Increase or reduce the Sriracha to suit your heat tolerance.
- Don’t Skip Flipping: Turn the fritters halfway through baking for even crisping.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | ~140 |
Protein | ~5g |
Carbohydrates | ~12g |
Fat | ~7g |
Fiber | ~2g |
Sodium | ~200mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion size
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- In a Wrap: Use as a filling with fresh greens, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Snack or Appetizer: Serve at gatherings with an assortment of dips.
- Meal Prep: Store fritters in the fridge for quick, healthy lunches during the week.
FAQs About Savory Broccoli Quinoa Fritters
1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Simply steam or blanch fresh broccoli until tender, then chop it finely.
2. Can I pan-fry these fritters?
Absolutely! Heat a non-stick skillet with a little olive oil and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate fritters in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to restore crispiness.
4. Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, freeze them after baking. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.
5. What can I use instead of almond meal?
Oat flour, chickpea flour, or breadcrumbs are great alternatives for binding.
6. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is already gluten-free when using almond meal. Double-check your nutritional yeast and Sriracha labels to ensure compliance.
Why You Should Make These Broccoli Quinoa Fritters Today
These Savory Broccoli Quinoa Fritters with Spicy Sriracha Aioli are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. They’re flavorful, crispy, and versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed snack, a delicious appetizer, or a wholesome meal component, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy these irresistible fritters. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!
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Savory Broccoli Quinoa Fritters with Spicy Sriracha Aioli
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters 1x
Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Savory Broccoli Quinoa Fritters with Spicy Sriracha Aioli are a healthy and flavorful snack or appetizer. Packed with plant-based protein, smoky spices, and creamy aioli, they’re perfect for meal prep, parties, or a wholesome main dish.
Ingredients
Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bites
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups filtered water (divided)
- 2 cups frozen broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons flaxseed meal
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup almond meal or almond flour
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1¼ to 1½ teaspoons sea salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- ⅓ cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha or chile garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Rinse and Cook: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly, then place it in a medium saucepan with 1½ cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat, use a fork to fluff the contents, and allow it to cool.
- Steam the Broccoli: In a small pot, bring ½ cup water to a simmer. Add the frozen broccoli and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until tender.
- Prepare Flax Egg: In a small bowl, combine the flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli, flax egg, olive oil, almond meal, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, smoked paprika, sea salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form Bites: Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small patties or balls.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the vegan mayonnaise with Sriracha or chile garlic sauce.
- Serve with Aioli: Serve the warm quinoa bites with a side of Sriracha aioli for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Customizable: Replace broccoli with spinach or kale for a variation.
- Make-Ahead: Store the mixture in the fridge for up to a day before shaping and baking.
- Pan-Frying Option: Cook fritters in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil, 3–4 minutes per side.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze baked fritters and reheat in the oven for quick snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Plant-Based, vegan