Quinoa Patties with Zucchini and Feta Cheese
These crispy quinoa patties are packed with wholesome ingredients like zucchini, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, making them a nutritious and flavorful option for any meal. They’re perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a protein-packed snack. The combination of quinoa and feta adds a rich, slightly tangy taste, while zucchini keeps them moist and tender. Serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for an extra burst of flavor!
⏳ Time Required:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
1 medium zucchini, grated and squeezed dry
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or dill)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 minced garlic clove)
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, then let it cool.
Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, grated zucchini, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix until everything is well incorporated. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
3️⃣ Shape the Patties
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small patties. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
4️⃣ Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Place the patties in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm with tzatziki, Greek yogurt, or a simple side salad.
Enjoy as a snack, side dish, or in a wrap with fresh veggies!
Tips & Variations:
✅ Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
✅ Add more protein – Mix in ¼ cup of chickpea flour for extra protein and binding power.
✅ Oven-baked option – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
✅ Air fryer option – Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make these patties ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months (raw or cooked).
Q: How do I keep my patties from falling apart?
A: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. If the mixture is still too wet, add extra breadcrumbs or a tablespoon of chickpea flour to help bind them.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Q: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once halfway for even crispiness.
Q: What can I serve these with?
A: These patties pair well with tzatziki, Greek yogurt, hummus, avocado dip, or a fresh side salad.
Tips for Perfect Quinoa Patties
✅ Use Cold Quinoa: Cook and cool the quinoa before using it in the mixture—it helps with binding.
✅ Squeeze the Zucchini Well: Excess moisture can make the patties fall apart.
✅ Add More Flavor: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or a drizzle of lemon juice for extra zing.
✅ Experiment with Herbs: Swap parsley for dill, basil, or mint for a fresh twist.
✅ Make It Vegan: Replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water).
✅ Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Nutrition Information (Per Patty, Approximate)
Calories: ~120
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fats: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 180mg (varies based on feta and salt used)