Name: Cheesy Veggie Quinoa Bites: A Nutritious and Delicious Snack
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 2 cups precooked quinoa; 2 large eggs; 1 carrot, shredded; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons flour (regular or gluten-free); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Parmesan cheese – Adds extra cheesiness.; Spinach or kale – Boosts fiber and vitamins.; Chopped bell peppers – Adds color and sweetness.; Red pepper flakes – For a spicy kick.

Description

These cheesy veggie quinoa bites are a crispy, protein-packed snack perfect for kids, meal prep, or a quick appetizer. Made with quinoa, fresh vegetables, and sharp cheddar cheese, they are baked in a mini muffin tin for a convenient, bite-sized treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cooking spray
2 cups precooked quinoa
2 large eggs
1 carrot, shredded
2 scallions, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons flour (regular or gluten-free)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Additions:

Parmesan cheese – Adds extra cheesiness.
Spinach or kale – Boosts fiber and vitamins.
Chopped bell peppers – Adds color and sweetness.
Red pepper flakes – For a spicy kick.

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
Prepare the Quinoa Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine quinoa, carrot, scallions, garlic, and cilantro.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
Add the Binding Ingredients
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs.
- Mix eggs into the quinoa mixture along with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well combined.
Fill the Muffin Tin
- Spoon mixture into each cup, pressing lightly to compact.
- Fill to the top since they won’t expand.
Bake Until Golden
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and firm.
- Let cool for a few minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove bites from the tin and serve warm or at room temperature.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or shredded cheese, if desired.

Notes

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or in a microwave for 30 seconds.
Freezing: Store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American