Description

These Quinoa Pizza Bites are a savory, healthy snack perfect for anyone looking for a gluten-free and protein-packed appetizer or treat. Made with cooked quinoa, mashed pinto beans, tomato paste, and flavorful seasonings, they are baked to a slight crisp with optional melted string cheese centers for an extra cheesy twist. Quick to prepare and great for serving warm or cold, they make a delicious and nutritious bite-sized snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Quinoa Base

1/3 cup raw quinoa (50g)
3/4 cup water (180g)
1/2 tsp salt (divided)

Bean Mixture

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
2 tsp dried basil (optional)
1/2 tsp salt (remaining)

Cheese (Optional)

3 sticks string cheese or vegan mozzarella

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Instructions

Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer to remove the bitter saponins that coat the grains, ensuring a cleaner taste.
Cook Quinoa: Combine rinsed quinoa, water, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
Preheat Oven: While quinoa cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
Prepare Bean Mixture: Drain and rinse the pinto beans. In a large bowl, mash them well using a fork. Add the cooked quinoa, tomato paste, sweetener, onion powder, garlic, dried basil (if using), remaining salt, and mix until uniform.
Form Bites: Roll the mixture into small balls. If using cheese, break off small pieces and press one into the center of each ball for a gooey surprise inside.
Bake: Arrange the balls on a nonstick or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven on the center rack for 20 minutes or until the outside becomes slightly crispy.
Serve and Store: Enjoy the quinoa pizza bites hot or cold. Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze to extend shelf life.

Notes

For a vegan option, use vegan mozzarella string cheese or omit cheese entirely.
Sweetener choice can be sugar, maple syrup, agave, or another preferred type.
These bites can be served as a snack, appetizer, or light meal accompaniment.
Freezing leftovers in an airtight container allows storage for up to 2 months.
Adding spices like chili flakes or oregano can enhance flavor variations.