Crispy Quinoa Patties are a delicious, protein-packed vegetarian recipe made with cooked quinoa, eggs, vegetables, and parmesan cheese. These crispy quinoa patties are golden on the outside, tender inside, and perfect for quick meals, snacks, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Great vegetarian protein option
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Versatile for bowls, sandwiches, or salads
Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups cooked quinoa
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup gluten-free whole grain breadcrumbs (or regular)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped zucchini
- 1 tablespoon oil, plus more as needed
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, eggs, salt, and lemon pepper.
- Stir in parsley, onion, parmesan cheese, and garlic.
- Add breadcrumbs, chopped carrot, and zucchini. Mix well and let sit for a few minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb moisture.
- Shape the mixture into about 20 thick patties. Adjust texture with more breadcrumbs if too wet, or a few drops of water if too dry.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook 5–6 patties at a time, cover, and cook for 7–10 minutes until deeply golden on the bottom.
- Carefully flip and cook the other side for about 5 minutes until golden.
- Remove and repeat with remaining patties, adding oil as needed. Serve warm.
Tips & Tricks
- Let the mixture rest so patties hold together better
- Use finely chopped vegetables for even texture
- Cook on medium-low heat for maximum crispiness
- Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra flavor
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 20 patties
- Category: Appetizer / Main
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free option, Halal-Friendly
Notes
- Mixture can be refrigerated uncooked for up to 3 days
- Serve with yogurt sauce, hummus, or avocado
- Works well in pita bread or wraps
Nutrition (Approximate per patty)
- Calories: 95
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 4 g
FAQ
Can I bake quinoa patties instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Do quinoa patties freeze well?
Yes, freeze cooked patties up to 2 months.
Why are my patties falling apart?
They may need more breadcrumbs or resting time.
Can I make them vegan?
Eggs are essential for binding, but flax eggs may work.
What quinoa works best?
White or tri-color quinoa both work well.
Storage
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep them crispy. Freeze for longer storage.
Similar Recipes
Crispy Quinoa Patties
Ingredients
- 2 2/3 cups cooked quinoa
- 4 large eggs beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1/2 small onion finely chopped
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 3/4 cup gluten-free whole grain breadcrumbs or regular
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped zucchini
- 1 tablespoon oil plus more as needed
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, eggs, salt, and lemon pepper.
- Stir in parsley, onion, parmesan cheese, and garlic.
- Add breadcrumbs, chopped carrot, and zucchini. Mix well and let sit for a few minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb moisture.
- Shape the mixture into about 20 thick patties. Adjust texture with more breadcrumbs if too wet, or a few drops of water if too dry.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook 5–6 patties at a time, cover, and cook for 7–10 minutes until deeply golden on the bottom.
- Carefully flip and cook the other side for about 5 minutes until golden.
- Remove and repeat with remaining patties, adding oil as needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- Mixture can be refrigerated uncooked for up to 3 days
Conclusion
Crispy Quinoa Patties are a versatile, satisfying vegetarian recipe that works for almost any meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, they’re a reliable favorite for healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.