Name: Quinoa Pizza Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked and cooled quinoa (You can make this part days in advance or use leftover quinoa from dinner.); 2 cups cooked and cooled cauliflower florets, pureed; 1 egg egg (If you are egg-free, a flax egg or gelatin egg would work for binding.); 1/4 cup white rice flour (Adds a nice texture to the bites.); 2 tbsp coconut flour (Helps absorb moisture and binds the ingredients together.); 2 tbsp pizza sauce (Adds that quintessential pizza flavor.); 2 tsp onion powder (Enhances the overall taste.); 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder (A must for that aromatic flavor.); 2 tsp Italian seasoning (Brings all the herbs together beautifully.); 1 1/2 tsp sea salt (Essential for flavoring.); 1/2 tsp pepper (For a bit of kick.); extra pizza sauce (for dipping.); optional freshly grated parmesan cheese (for garnish.); optional basil (for garnish.)

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As a lover of both pizza and healthy eating, I was thrilled when I discovered the idea of making Quinoa Pizza Bites. It was one of those busy weeknights when I wanted something quick, yet delicious. The kids were restless, and I needed a recipe that would be quick to throw together. I had some leftover quinoa and a few other pantry staples. What better way to satisfy a pizza craving than by combining those ingredients into bite-sized pieces of joy? Baked until golden, these bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect snack for both kids and adults alike.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Grater, Baking Sheet

Why You’ll Love This Quinoa Pizza Bites

The Quinoa Pizza Bites stands out for a myriad of reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly nutritious, packing a punch with quinoa and cauliflower. These ingredients are not just filling, but they’re also loaded with vitamins and minerals that contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Secondly, they are versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or spices, allowing everyone to create their unique flavor. Thirdly, they are easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them perfect for those busy weeknights.

Kid-Friendly Appeal

Kids love the fun size of these bites, and they make a great finger food. They are ideal for parties or as an after-school snack. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies! I often let my kids help shape the bites, making the cooking process a family affair, which they absolutely love.

Great for Meal Prep

Another reason to adore the Quinoa Pizza Bites is their meal prep potential. You can make a big batch and freeze them for later. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you’ve got a healthy snack or meal ready in no time! This is especially helpful for busy parents like me who need quick solutions during the week.

Perfect Dipping Sauce

Pairing these bites with a good dipping sauce elevates the experience. Whether you prefer a classic marinara or a spicy ranch, the right sauce can bring out the flavors of the Quinoa Pizza Bites even more. Sometimes, I even make a homemade pizza sauce just for this occasion!

Allergen-Friendly Option

For those with dietary restrictions, these bites can easily be made gluten-free and dairy-free. Substituting the egg for a flax egg keeps it suitable for vegans as well. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy them, regardless of dietary preferences.

Fun for All Occasions

Lastly, these bites are perfect for any occasion – be it a family gathering, a game night, or even just a cozy evening at home. They’re a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the guilt. Sharing them with friends and family always brings smiles and satisfaction.

What to Buy for Quinoa Pizza Bites

The ingredients for Quinoa Pizza Bites are simple yet effective in creating a delicious and nutritious snack. The main players here are quinoa and cauliflower, which come together beautifully to form the base. Combining these with herbs and spices creates a flavor explosion that rivals any traditional pizza.

1 cup cooked and cooled quinoa: You can make this part days in advance or use leftover quinoa from dinner.
2 cups cooked and cooled cauliflower florets, pureed: You will need about half a head of cauliflower. I steamed mine for 15 minutes while my quinoa was cooking. You can make this part days in advance or use leftover cauliflower from dinner.
1 egg: If you are egg-free, a flax egg or gelatin egg would work for binding.
1/4 cup white rice flour: This adds a nice texture to the bites.
2 tbsp coconut flour: Helps absorb moisture and binds the ingredients together.
2 tbsp pizza sauce: Adds that quintessential pizza flavor.
2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the overall taste.
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A must for that aromatic flavor.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings all the herbs together beautifully.
1 1/2 tsp sea salt: Essential for flavoring.
1/2 tsp pepper: For a bit of kick.
Extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Optional: Freshly grated parmesan cheese and/or basil for garnish.

How to Assemble Quinoa Pizza Bites

Assembling the Quinoa Pizza Bites is a simple and enjoyable process. It’s like creating little pizza balls that everyone will love. Follow along with me as we bring these delightful bites to life!

Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial to ensure your bites get that perfect golden crust. It’s always exciting to feel the heat of the oven!
In a small mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: the cooked and cooled quinoa, pureed cauliflower, egg, white rice flour, coconut flour, pizza sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper. As you mix, notice the beautiful blend of textures and aromas coming together.
Gently roll the mixture into about 1-inch balls using your hands. This step is where the fun begins! You can make them perfectly round, or a bit rustic, depending on your mood. Just make sure they’re all roughly the same size for even cooking.
Set the rolled balls onto a Silpat or parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Arrange them with enough space in between to allow them to puff up while baking. The anticipation builds as you get ready for the oven!
Place the baking sheet in the pre-heated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them towards the end. They should turn a lovely golden brown color, indicating that they’re perfectly crisp on the outside.
If you wish, garnish the baked bites with freshly grated parmesan cheese and basil right after pulling them from the oven. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.
Serve immediately with extra pizza sauce for dipping. Watch as everyone dives into this delightful dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Mixing Method: Ensure that all ingredients are well combined for even flavor distribution. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour.
Texture Check: The mixture should be moist enough to hold together but not overly wet. Adjust flour as needed.
Baking Sheet Prep: Using parchment paper can help prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them!
Heating Tips: When reheating, bake at a lower temperature for a few minutes to avoid drying them out.

Recipe Variations about Quinoa Pizza Bites

There are so many fun ways to adapt the Quinoa Pizza Bites to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:

Cheesy Bites: Add shredded cheese to the mixture for a melty, gooey texture.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or cilantro to change the flavor profile.
Mini Muffins: Try baking the mixture in a muffin tin for a different presentation and texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of white rice flour to accommodate gluten restrictions.

Accompaniments for Quinoa Pizza Bites

When serving your Quinoa Pizza Bites, consider these delightful accompaniments:

Fresh Salad: Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm bites.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with various dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
Appetizer Platter: Include them on a party platter alongside other finger foods like veggies and hummus.
Game Day Snack: These make an excellent addition to any game day spread!
Casual Lunch: Serve with fresh fruit for a casual lunch option.
Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Quinoa Pizza Bites ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freeze them. Just bake them when you’re ready to enjoy. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!

Yes! By using gluten-free flour instead of regular flour, you can easily make Quinoa Pizza Bites gluten-free. Always ensure that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have a severe gluten intolerance.

When stored in an airtight container, Quinoa Pizza Bites can last up to three days in the fridge. They make for a quick snack or a side dish to meals throughout the week!

Quinoa Pizza Bites pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a crisp salad, a selection of dipping sauces like marinara or ranch, or as part of a party platter with other appetizers.

Conclusion

The Quinoa Pizza Bites are a fantastic fusion of health and flavor, making them a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious snack. I encourage you to try making these delightful bites for your next gathering or as a quick meal option. They’re sure to impress family and friends alike!