Mushroom Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls

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Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Mushroom Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls are packed with earthy mushrooms, protein-rich quinoa, and sweet pops of red bell pepper. Perfect as an appetizer, meatless main, or even tucked into a pita with hummus, they bring color and bold flavor to your plate.

What makes these veggie balls shine is their versatility. You can serve them at parties with a zesty yogurt dip, toss them over a salad, or snack on them straight from the fridge. They’re gluten-free, nutrient-dense, and absolutely satisfying.

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What Kind of Quinoa Should I Use?

Tri-color quinoa adds a beautiful speckled look and nutty flavor, but white quinoa works just as well if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to cook it until fluffy, as this helps bind the mixture without making it heavy.

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Ingredients for the Mushroom Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls

• Mushrooms: Earthy and meaty, they form the flavorful base.
• Quinoa: Provides protein and a slightly nutty texture.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and bright color.
• Onion & garlic: For aromatic depth and savory notes.
• Breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed): Help bind everything into perfect balls.
• Egg (or flax egg for vegan option): Acts as the main binder.
• Parsley: Freshness and a pop of green.
• Spices (paprika, cumin, salt, pepper): Layer in warmth and complexity.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and brushing before baking.

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How To Make the Mushroom Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls

Step 1: Prep the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water, then cook it in vegetable broth or water until tender and fluffy. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a pan with a bit of olive oil, sauté finely chopped mushrooms, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened and fragrant. Allow the mixture to cool.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, egg (or flax egg), chopped parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Brush the balls lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp on the outside.

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Serving and Storing Mushroom Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls

Serve these veggie balls warm with a dipping sauce like tahini, tzatziki, or a spicy yogurt dip. They’re fantastic over grain bowls, tucked into wraps, or even broken over salads for extra protein and crunch. For gatherings, stick toothpicks in them for a fun appetizer!

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispness, or enjoy them cold as a quick snack.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan breadcrumbs.

Can I freeze these veggie balls?

Yes! Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

What can I serve them with?

They pair beautifully with dips, tossed into a grain bowl, or inside a pita with hummus and greens.

Can I pan-fry instead of bake?

Absolutely! Pan-fry in a bit of oil over medium heat until golden and heated through for extra crispiness.

How do I prevent them from falling apart?

Make sure the quinoa and vegetables are cool before mixing, and don’t skip the egg or flax egg, as it’s the key binder.

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Want More Vegetarian Ideas?

If you love these Mushroom Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Blueberry Swirl Yogurt Bites for a sweet and tangy treat.
• Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts when you crave something playful and indulgent.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Linguine if you’re looking for a savory dinner twist.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding for a luscious dessert idea.
• Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars to bring a nutty sweetness to your table.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest vegetarian board so you can come back to it anytime: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you bake or pan-fry? Add any special spices? I love hearing your creative twists—let’s inspire each other!

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