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How to Make Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to make these Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls.
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the balls from sticking.
2. Cook the Quinoa
If you haven’t cooked the quinoa yet, do so now. Rinse ½ cup of dry quinoa under cold water, then cook it according to the package instructions (typically, 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water). Let it cool for a few minutes once done.
3. Mash the Chickpeas
In a large bowl, add the chickpeas. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until they’re mostly broken down but still have some texture (you don’t want to make a completely smooth paste). You want some chickpea chunks to add texture to your balls.
4. Mix the Ingredients
Add the cooked quinoa, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground flaxseed (if using), cumin, smoked paprika, coriander (if using), salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Add Fresh Herbs and Tahini
Next, stir in the fresh parsley or cilantro and the lemon juice. For added richness and creaminess, you can also mix in a tablespoon of tahini. This will help bind everything together and add a slight nuttiness to the flavor.
6. Form the Balls
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture is too wet to form into balls, you can add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind it.
7. Coat the Balls
For an extra crispy texture, roll the balls in some breadcrumbs before placing them on the baking sheet. You can also use crushed nuts or seeds for a crunchier exterior.
8. Bake
Place the chickpea and quinoa balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy on the outside, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re done baking, remove the balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Ways to Serve Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls
These baked chickpea and quinoa balls are versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- As a Snack
Serve them on their own with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, like tahini, hummus, or yogurt-based dressing. These are perfect for a quick snack when you need something satisfying and nutritious. - In a Salad
Toss the baked balls on top of a fresh salad of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado. Drizzle with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing for a filling and light meal. - In a Wrap or Pita
For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, place the baked chickpea and quinoa balls in a warm pita or wrap with hummus, shredded lettuce, and sliced vegetables. Drizzle with tahini or a yogurt-based sauce to bring it all together. - With a Side of Roasted Vegetables
Pair the chickpea and quinoa balls with a side of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a wholesome and filling meal. - In a Bowl
For a nourishing bowl meal, serve the balls with a grain (like brown rice or couscous), roasted veggies, and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki. This creates a balanced, hearty meal.
Why These Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls Are So Great
- Nutrient-Dense: Full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these balls will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
- Customizable: You can change up the seasonings and ingredients to suit your preferences. Add spinach for extra greens, or switch up the herbs to match the flavor profile you like.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These balls store well in the fridge and freezer, making them perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: If you have picky eaters at home, these chickpea and quinoa balls are an excellent way to get them to enjoy healthy ingredients. They’re fun to eat and can be paired with tasty dips.
Conclusion: A Healthy, Flavorful Option for Any Meal
Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls are a delicious, nutritious option for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. They’re easy to make, customizable, and work well as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Whether you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, or simply looking for a healthy alternative to traditional meatballs, these plant-powered bites will definitely hit the spot!
Give them a try, and let us know how you like to serve your Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls!
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