Cheesy Quinoa Fritters

These cheesy quinoa fritters with parmesan and chives are a tasty side dish recipe that goes with just about anything. Simple to make and gluten-free to boot, these crispy fritters will easily make their way into your rotation.

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Quinoa is a versatile ingredient that can be used to make anything from salad to pizza crust. If you haven’t given it a try, this is your sign that it is time. Check out all of our side dish recipes for more inspiration.

Why you will love this recipe

Quinoa is super healthy. Besides being a rare plant-based source of complete protein, they’re also high in fiber and low glycemic index.

These fritters are not only a new way to enjoy quinoa, but they are also a new way to enjoy cheese. If you’re anything like me, cheese is a plus in any savory recipe.

It is naturally gluten-free. Bonus!

Ingredients

Find the complete ingredient list, with measurements, in the recipe card below.

• Quinoa – Use pre-cooked quinoa to speed things up. You can follow instructions on the box or make Instant Pot quinoa for an easy hands-off method.
• Cheese – I prefer freshly grated Parmesan in this recipe, but you do you.
• Almond Flour – This helps to bind the ingredients together. I use almond flour to keep things gluten-free. It also tastes rich and delicious.
• Chives – Chopped chives bring the mild onion-y flavor.
• Egg – Another binder to keep your fritters from falling apart.
• Salt and Black Pepper – A must to bring out the best in your ingredients.
• Oil – This is for frying your fritters in. I like to use olive oil.

Equipment

Nothing fancy is required for this recipe.

• Mixing Bowl – Use one large enough to give you room to mix.
• Frying Pan – Again, choose a pan or skillet large enough to give you room to work.
• Spoon and Flipper – For stirring the mixture and flipping the cakes.

Instructions

Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom for the FULL recipe details.

Step 1

First, cook the quinoa if you don’t have any already cooked on hand, and let it cool. As mentioned above, I always prep extra when I make it, so I am ready to roll. Fun fact – you can also freeze quinoa!

Step 2

Next, place all ingredients, except for the oil, into the large mixing bowl and stir the quinoa mixture until well combined. Set the bowl aside.

Step 3

Then, heat the oil in the large pan over medium heat.

Step 4

Next, form six ¼ cup fritters, wetting hands if necessary to prevent sticking, and add them to the hot pan. I generally cook three at a time.

Flip after about five minutes. Be careful when flipping, as they are a tad fragile.

Cook for another five minutes until golden brown, set aside, then cook the last three fritters.

Substitutions and recipe variations

Use whatever grateable cheese strikes your fancy. My choice is a Parmesan cheese for that salty, nutty, crunchy vibe, but cheddar, mozzarella, and asiago will all work well, too.

Swapping the chives for different fresh herbs, such as parsley or even dill, would be delicious.

Zsoosh them up a bit by adding seasonings like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.

Want something entirely different? Use cooked brown rice instead of the quinoa for some cheesy rice cakes.

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of almond flour, but remember that they will no longer be gluten-free.

Serving suggestions

Top with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle on more chopped chives for a tasty side dish.

These quinoa cakes go well with chicken, steak, grilled seafood, and even eggs. Yum! Add some vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or cauliflower, for a complete meal.

Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup (may I suggest tomato basil soup?) for some added protein and crunchy texture.

Enjoy as a protein-packed appetizer or snack.

FAQS

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

To freeze, let them cool, and then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze individually to prevent sticking. Then place the frozen fritters into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

More quinoa recipes

If you’ve tried these cheesy quinoa patties, please give me a rating and let me know how they turned out by leaving me a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!

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