Baked Broccoli Chickpea Patties
Highlighted under: Fresh Inspiration
I absolutely love making these Baked Broccoli Chickpea Patties because they're not only delicious but also incredibly wholesome. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the fresh broccoli and hearty chickpeas. They make a perfect meal prep option that’s easy to whip up and freeze for later. Plus, they’re kid-friendly and a fantastic way to sneak some greens into our diets. Whether served as a main or a snack, these patties never fail to impress my family and friends alike.
When I first experimented with Baked Broccoli Chickpea Patties, I wanted a healthy alternative to typical fried snacks. The combination of chickpeas and broccoli not only provides a great texture but also complements each other beautifully. I learned that baking them instead of frying not only saves calories but allows the flavors to shine without the extra grease.
One tip I discovered is to let the mixture rest for a few minutes before forming the patties. This helps in binding the ingredients together, resulting in a sturdy yet tender patty. I often pair these with a tangy yogurt dip that elevates the taste even more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious ingredients packed with protein and fiber
- Versatile – perfect for meals or snacks
- Great texture with a crunchy exterior and soft inside
Ingredient Insights
The star of these Baked Broccoli Chickpea Patties is undoubtedly the chickpeas. They not only provide a creamy texture when mashed but also add a significant amount of protein and fiber, making the patties satisfying and filling. If you're in a hurry or want a quicker prep, canned chickpeas can be used—just rinse and drain them well before mashing to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
Broccoli not only enhances the nutritional profile but also gives the patties a vibrant color and bite. Steaming the broccoli ensures it retains its bright green hue and nutrients; however, overcooking can lead to a mushy consistency. Aim for just enough time in the steam to soften it, about 4-5 minutes, so that it mixes beautifully without losing its shape.
Tips for Perfect Patties
Forming patties can sometimes be tricky; if your mixture seems too wet, try adding a bit more breadcrumbs gradually. Conversely, if they're crumbling, a dash of water can help the ingredients stick together. The key is finding a balance that yields a patty which holds together yet is fluffy inside. Aim for a diameter of about 2-3 inches to ensure even cooking and a satisfying texture.
When baking, ensure that the patties are spaced well apart on the baking sheet to allow for even browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping, which defeats the purpose of that golden-brown exterior. You can also lightly spray the patties with cooking oil for an extra crunchy finish or flip them midway through baking for uniform crispiness.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas, mashed
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving
- Yogurt dip or hummus
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed chickpeas, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully combined.
Form Patties
Using your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Patties
Drizzle the patties with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Serve
Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the patties warm with a yogurt dip or hummus!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated carrots or spices of your choice. They also freeze well, so make a double batch for a quick meal later!
Make-Ahead and Storage
These patties are perfect for meal prep! You can form them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to three days before baking. Alternatively, to freeze, place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag; they will keep for up to three months, ready for a quick bake anytime.
When ready to enjoy your frozen patties, there's no need to thaw them. Just preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll maintain that desired crispy texture while ensuring they’re cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these patties with a tangy yogurt dip or creamy hummus for a well-rounded flavor experience. The coolness of the dip complements the warmth and crispness of the patties, making each bite delightful. You can also serve them on a bed of greens for a more substantial meal, perhaps adding a zesty lemon dressing to brighten the dish even further.
For a fun twist, try topping the patties with avocado slices, salsa, or even crumbled feta for an added layer of flavor. You can also sandwich them in whole-grain pita bread with fresh veggies for a nutritious, on-the-go meal that's satisfying for both kids and adults.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before chopping.
→ How do I store leftover patties?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan substitute. The patties will still turn out delicious.
→ What can I serve these patties with?
They are fantastic with a yogurt dip, tahini sauce, or just a simple salad on the side.
Baked Broccoli Chickpea Patties
I absolutely love making these Baked Broccoli Chickpea Patties because they're not only delicious but also incredibly wholesome. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the fresh broccoli and hearty chickpeas. They make a perfect meal prep option that’s easy to whip up and freeze for later. Plus, they’re kid-friendly and a fantastic way to sneak some greens into our diets. Whether served as a main or a snack, these patties never fail to impress my family and friends alike.
Created by: Kerensa Trelawney
Recipe Type: Fresh Inspiration
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Patties
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas, mashed
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving
- Yogurt dip or hummus
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed chickpeas, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle the patties with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the patties warm with a yogurt dip or hummus!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated carrots or spices of your choice. They also freeze well, so make a double batch for a quick meal later!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 9g