These quinoa broccoli nuggets are perfect for meatless meals. Cooked quinoa is combined with pureed broccoli, onions and garlic. Breadcrumbs are mixed in along with onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Cook 1 cup of dried quinoa according to package instructions (see my fluffy quinoa recipe here). Once cooked, set aside.
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
Add a bit of cooking oil to a frying pan over medium high heat. Saute the onions and garlic until they turn translucent, about 1-2 minutes. Add in the broccoli and cook another 1-2 minutes, until thawed and heated through.
Add the broccoli mixture to the blender with water and blend until smooth.
Pour the blended broccoli mixture into a bowl along with cooked quinoa, ½ cup breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix everything together.
Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to scoop and roll into balls.
Roll each ball in more breadcrumbs. Flatten each ball slightly between the palms of your hands.
Place nuggets on to a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping each nugget halfway through. Turn the oven to broil and place the rack in the upper position. Broil for 3-6 minutes until tops are golden brown. (Keep an eye on them during this step so that they don't burn).Remove from oven, let cool 5 minutes. Serve with dipping sauce and enjoy!
Recipe Notes:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4-5 days. These can easily be reheated in the microwave or oven. These nuggets also freeze really well! Add them to a freezer bag and freeze up to 3 months.
Nutrition information is for one nugget.
Cook the quinoa in advance to save time. Use our simple tips on how to make fluffy quinoa that isn’t mushy. Quinoa can also be cooked in a rice cooker with a 1:2 ratio (1 cup quinoa, 2 cups water).
Fresh or frozen broccoli will work for this recipe. You could also use peas, green beans or spinach for that same green color.
Breadcrumbs can be swapped for a gluten-free version or panko crumbs. In our chickpea nuggets, we use rolled oats which could also be an option to try instead.
Serve nuggets with dipping sauce. We loved these with ranch dressing! Try them with easy favorites like ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, hot sauce or salsa.