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Homemade Crispy Quinoa & Kale Fritters recipe photo

Crispy Quinoa & Kale Fritters

These Crispy Quinoa & Kale Fritters are a flavorful, wholesome snack or light meal, packed with quinoa, kale, and feta, perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Light Meal, Snack
Cuisine: Vegetarian

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked quinoa follow cooking directions on package
  • 1 1/2 cups kale coarsely chopped, center stalk removed
  • 1/2 cup sweet onions diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup low-fat feta cheese crumbles
  • 1 cup whole-grain panko breadcrumbs or regular if unavailable
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or rice cooker
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Large skillet or non-stick frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plate lined with paper towels

Method
 

Prepare the Quinoa
  1. Start by cooking 2 cups of quinoa according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
Prep the Vegetables
  1. Wash and coarsely chop 1 1/2 cups of kale, removing the tough center stalks. Dice 1/2 cup of sweet onions finely.
Mix the Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped kale, diced onions, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Add 1/2 cup low-fat feta cheese crumbles and 1 cup whole-grain panko breadcrumbs. Pour in 2 beaten eggs and mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together well. Add more breadcrumbs if too wet.
Form the Fritters
  1. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small patties or fritters. Place them on a plate or tray.
Cook the Fritters
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently with a spatula.
Drain and Serve
  1. Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or fresh salad.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed whole-grain crackers or oats.
  • To bake instead of frying, bake fritters at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3 days and freeze for up to 2 months.