Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These gluten-free Goat Cheese Lemon and Mint Quinoa Patties are not just a recipe—they're a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Imagine crispy, golden-brown patties bursting with tangy goat cheese, bright lemon zest, and refreshing mint, creating a dish so irresistible that even the pickiest eaters will be begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 100g goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Ensure quinoa is cooked and cooled to room temperature. If not already prepared, rinse quinoa in fine mesh strainer, then cook according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth. Spread cooked quinoa on a flat surface to cool and release excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled quinoa, crumbled goat cheese, fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and finely chopped mint leaves. Mix ingredients thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
- Crack two eggs into the quinoa mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until eggs bind all ingredients together, creating a cohesive mixture that can be formed into patties.
- Using clean hands, shape the quinoa mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Place formed patties on a clean plate or parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Ensure the pan is evenly heated before adding patties to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place quinoa patties in the heated skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional fresh mint leaves, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a light lemon vinaigrette. These patties can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: Ensure your cooked quinoa is thoroughly cooled and excess moisture is removed to help patties hold their shape.
- Binding Matters: The eggs are crucial for binding—mix them thoroughly to create a cohesive mixture that won't fall apart during cooking.
- Pan Temperature: Use medium heat and wait until the skillet is evenly heated to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without burning.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook patties in batches to maintain consistent heat and ensure each patty gets crispy edges.
- Serving Suggestions: Elevate your patties with a dollop of Greek yogurt, extra fresh mint, or a light lemon vinaigrette for added flavor complexity.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These patties can be prepared in advance and gently reheated in a skillet, making them perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
