Looking for a delicious and nutritious snack that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than these Sweet Potato Black Bean Quinoa Bites! Bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients, these bites are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a guilt-free treat, these little gems are sure to impress. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a delightful fusion of Mexican-inspired goodness that your family and friends will be raving about!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 medium sweet potato
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Wash the sweet potato thoroughly and pierce it several times with a fork. Microwave for 5-7 minutes until soft, or roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Once the sweet potato is cool enough to handle, peel off the skin and mash the flesh in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Drain and rinse the black beans, then add them to the mashed sweet potato. Use a fork or potato masher to partially mash the beans, leaving some texture.
- Add the cooked quinoa, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Mix in the breadcrumbs, which will help bind the mixture and provide additional texture.
- Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into compact, golf ball-sized bites. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or brush the bites with olive oil to help them crisp up and brown in the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. These bites can be enjoyed warm with salsa, guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potato: Opt for a medium-sized sweet potato that feels firm and has smooth skin. This will ensure a sweeter and creamier texture for your bites.
- Cook Quinoa Perfectly: Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter. Use a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa for perfectly fluffy results.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding chili powder or smoked paprika can give your bites an extra kick.
- Don't Skip the Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs are essential for binding the mixture and achieving that crispy exterior. If you're gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bites as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for that perfect golden brown color to ensure they’re crispy.
- Serve with Dips: These bites are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with salsa, guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip elevates the experience and adds extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: These bites can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in the oven for a quick and satisfying snack!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
