Description
These Quinoa Pizza Bites are a delicious and healthy snack that combines fluffy quinoa, pinto beans, and savory tomato paste, seasoned with herbs and spices. Baked to crispy perfection and optionally filled with string cheese or vegan mozzarella, these bites make a perfect grab-and-go appetizer or snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/3 cup raw quinoa (50g)
- 3/4 cup water (180g)
- 1 cup canned or cooked pinto beans (240g)
- 1/2 cup tomato paste (120g)
- 1 tsp sweetener of choice (5g)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp dried basil (optional)
- 3 sticks string cheese or vegan mozzarella (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer under cold water to remove the natural saponins which can cause bitterness.
- Cook Quinoa: In a small saucepan, bring water, rinsed quinoa, and 1/8 tsp salt to a boil.
- Simmer: Cover the pot once boiling, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) to prepare for baking the pizza bites.
- Prepare Mixture: Drain and rinse the pinto beans. Mash them well in a large mixing bowl using a fork. Add cooked quinoa, tomato paste, remaining salt, onion powder, minced garlic, dried basil (if using), and sweetener. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Bites: Roll the mixture into small balls. If using cheese, break a small piece and press it into the center of each ball to create a cheesy filling.
- Bake: Place the formed balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a nonstick surface. Bake on the center rack for about 20 minutes or until the edges turn slightly crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bites cool slightly before enjoying. They can be served hot or cold as a savory snack.
- Storage: Store leftover pizza bites covered in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Notes
- Rinsing quinoa is essential to remove bitterness and improve flavor.
- Optional cheese filling adds a melty texture; vegan mozzarella can be used for a dairy-free option.
- These bites are easily customizable: try adding herbs or spices according to taste.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure not to overfill cheese inside to avoid leakage during baking.
