Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Steam the broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. Let them cool completely, then chop finely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped broccoli, beaten eggs, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into walnut-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each bite slightly with your palm. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the bites feel firm to the touch. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Cook quinoa in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days for quick weeknight preparation. Cool broccoli and quinoa completely before mixing to prevent soggy bites. Don't overmix ingredients or overcrowd baking sheet. Can be made ahead - shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze shaped bites up to 1 month. Store leftovers in refrigerator 4 days or freeze 3 months. Reheat in 350°F oven 5-7 minutes.
