Quinoa Patties with Herbs and Cheese
Ingredients (approx. 6–8 patties):
• 280 g cooked quinoa (about 1 ½ cups).
• 1 egg.
• 50 g salty cheese (mozzarella, Gouda, or Parmesan; adjust salt to taste).
• Garlic powder to taste.
• ½ stalk of green onion (scallion), finely chopped.
• 1 handful of fresh cilantro (or culantro), chopped.
• 3 tbsp almond flour.
• Salt to taste (optional, depending on the cheese).
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking).
Preparation:
1. Mix the ingredients
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, egg, grated or shredded cheese, garlic powder, scallion, cilantro, and almond flour.
• Adjust salt if needed.
• Mix well until a consistent dough forms.
2. Rest the mixture
• Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so the almond flour absorbs moisture and the texture firms up.
3. Shape the patties
• With clean hands, form small patties (about the size of the palm of your hand).
• Press gently to compact them.
4. Cook
• Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Cook patties for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and firm.
Serving Suggestions:
• Serve warm with a yogurt and herb dip, or with fresh guacamole.
• Pair with a green salad for a light, antioxidant-rich meal.
• Use as a vegetarian burger base with whole-grain buns.
Nutritional Benefits:
• Quinoa: rich in protein, magnesium, and antioxidants.
• Cilantro/culantro: detoxifying and anti-inflammatory.
• Almond flour: adds vitamin E and healthy fats.
• Cheese: source of calcium and flavor balance.