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Mushroom, quinoa and red pepper veggie balls

Mushroom, Quinoa and Red Pepper Veggie Balls for Flavor Lovers

These mushroom, quinoa and red pepper veggie balls are flavorful, nutritious snacks perfect for any meal or gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Veggie Mixture
  • 2 cups Mushrooms Adds umami flavor and moisture; substitute with mixed mushrooms or omit for a milder taste.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness and depth; replace with shallots for a more delicate flavor.
  • 1 medium Red Pepper Contributes a sweet and slightly tangy taste; yellow or green bell peppers can be used as alternatives.
For the Binding
  • 1 cup Quinoa Acts as a binder and protein source; swap with other grains like bulgur or cooked rice if desired.
  • 2 medium Potatoes Creates a creamy texture; sweet potatoes can be substituted for a sweeter flavor profile.
For Flavoring
  • 2 cloves Garlic Infuses flavor and aroma; can be replaced with garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Adds freshness; substitute with cilantro or omit if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Enhances color and adds smokiness; swap for chili powder or cayenne for heat.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Provides heat; adjust amount to preference or omit for milder flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds Adds crunch and nuttiness; omit if allergic or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Other Essentials
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil For sautéing; any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will work well.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning for flavor enhancement.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning for flavor enhancement.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • pot
  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become translucent. Stir in diced red peppers and chopped mushrooms, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until tender.
  2. While the veggies are sautéing, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the diced potatoes. Boil for 5-7 minutes until tender. Once cooked, drain and mash the potatoes until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the sautéed mushroom mixture. Add cooked quinoa, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, sesame seeds, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Using a small ice cream scoop or hands, portion out the mixture and form into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Place on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
  6. Once baked, remove the veggie balls from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 3ballsCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

These veggie balls are easily customizable, so feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables or grains.

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