Description

Enjoy wholesome and flavorful mushroom, quinoa, and red pepper veggie balls—a plant-based recipe packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors. These easy-to-make veggie balls combine sautéed mushrooms, cooked quinoa, and sweet red bell peppers bound with breadcrumbs and flaxseed meal for a nutritious, satisfying appetizer, snack, or meal. Perfect for meal prep and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 cup fresh mushrooms, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Grains and Binders

1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal or egg substitute

Herbs and Seasonings

2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Oils and Optional

Olive oil for sautéing and frying

Instructions

Prepare the Veggies: Finely chop mushrooms, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté them in a little olive oil over medium heat until softened and fragrant to deepen flavors and remove excess moisture.
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse and cook quinoa according to package instructions. Allow to cool slightly before mixing.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sautéed vegetables, cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, flaxseed meal or egg substitute, fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly ensuring even distribution and binding.
Form the Veggie Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into small, evenly sized balls for uniform cooking and attractive presentation.
Cook Until Golden: Fry the balls in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway until golden and cooked through.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from sautéed veggies to prevent sogginess.
Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes before forming to help it firm up.
Use a small ice cream scoop for consistent ball size.
Baking offers a healthier, crispy alternative to frying.
If mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to improve cohesion.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 veggie balls
Calories: 150
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: mushroom, quinoa, red pepper, veggie balls, plant-based, gluten-free, healthy snack, appetizers, vegan option