Looking for a healthy, satisfying, and low-calorie snack or meal option? The Weight Watchers Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls are the perfect solution. These bite-sized balls are packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a great choice for those following the Weight Watchers program, as well as anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal or snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

This recipe is incredibly versatile—whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these chickpea and quinoa balls will not disappoint. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of savory flavor. Plus, the baked version keeps them light and low in SmartPoints, making them an excellent choice for anyone trying to stick to their daily SmartPoints allowance while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weight Watchers:

  1. Low SmartPoints: Each serving of these baked chickpea and quinoa balls is low in SmartPoints, making them a guilt-free snack or meal option for those following the Weight Watchers program. By baking rather than frying, we keep the points low while still achieving a crispy texture.
  2. Plant-Based Protein: Chickpeas and quinoa are both excellent sources of plant-based protein. This recipe will help you maintain muscle mass, curb your hunger, and keep you energized throughout the day.
  3. High in Fiber: Fiber plays a crucial role in weight management, digestion, and overall health. The chickpeas and quinoa in this recipe are both high in fiber, which helps keep you fuller for longer, making these balls an excellent choice for a filling snack or part of a meal.
  4. Versatile and Easy to Customize: This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can add your favorite herbs and spices to tailor it to your personal taste preferences. Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots, or even a small amount of cheese for added flavor.
  5. Meal Prep-Friendly: These baked chickpea and quinoa balls are perfect for meal prepping. You can batch-cook them at the beginning of the week and store them in the fridge or freezer for an easy and healthy snack or meal throughout the week.

Ingredients:

  • Canned chickpeas (or cooked chickpeas): 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Quinoa: 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa (WW SmartPoints: 3)
  • Breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free): 1/4 cup (WW SmartPoints: 1)
  • Egg: 1 large (WW SmartPoints: 2)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Onion: 1 small onion, finely diced (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Ground cumin: 1 tsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Ground coriander: 1 tsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Ground turmeric: 1/2 tsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp (WW SmartPoints: 1)
  • Lemon zest: 1 tsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)
  • Water: 2 tbsp (WW SmartPoints: 0)

Equipment:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Food processor or blender
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Begin by cooking the quinoa according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, then simmering it in a pot with 1 cup of water for about 15 minutes. Once the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. Fluff it with a fork to separate the grains, then set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas

While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chickpeas. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water to remove any excess sodium. If you’re using cooked chickpeas, ensure they are fully drained and patted dry. Once prepared, place the chickpeas in a food processor or blender and pulse until they are finely mashed but not completely pureed. You want some texture, so don’t over-process the chickpeas.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, or until fragrant. This step brings out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in the onions and garlic, which will infuse the balls with savory goodness.

Step 4: Combine All the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed chickpeas, cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, salt, and lemon zest. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well-incorporated. You should have a slightly sticky mixture that holds together when pressed. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 5: Form the Balls

Using your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up. You should be able to make about 16-20 balls, depending on the size you choose. Try to keep them evenly sized to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Bake the Chickpea and Quinoa Balls

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure easy cleanup. Arrange the quinoa and chickpea balls in a single layer, spacing them apart so they have room to cook evenly. Bake the balls in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they become crispy on all sides. The balls are ready when they are golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the balls from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm or at room temperature. These quinoa and chickpea balls can be enjoyed on their own, dipped in your favorite sauce (such as tzatziki, tahini, or a tomato-based dipping sauce), or added to salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Ball, Recipe makes 20 balls):

  • Calories: 55 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbs: 8g
  • Fat: 2g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • WW SmartPoints: 1 SmartPoint per ball (20 balls total)

Smart WW Points Breakdown:

Each Weight Watchers Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Ball has only 1 SmartPoint, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, low-calorie snack or meal. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients contributing to the SmartPoints:

  • Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, and they are 0 SmartPoints when used in reasonable portions in recipes like this one. They also contribute to the texture and heartiness of the balls.
  • Quinoa: Quinoa is a nutrient-dense whole grain that provides protein and fiber, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. While quinoa contributes 3 SmartPoints for the 1/2 cup used in this recipe, it’s a smart way to add bulk and nutrition to the dish.
  • Egg: The egg provides structure to the quinoa and chickpea mixture and helps bind everything together. While it contributes 2 SmartPoints, it’s a necessary ingredient for texture and binding.
  • Olive Oil: Using olive oil adds healthy fats and moisture to the balls, contributing 1 SmartPoint for the tablespoon used in the recipe. You can reduce this slightly by using a non-stick spray for baking if you prefer to lower the SmartPoints further.
  • Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs are used to give the balls a crunchy exterior. They contribute 1 SmartPoint for the 1/4 cup used in the recipe, providing an additional texture that complements the soft interior.
  • Spices and Herbs: The spices—cumin, coriander, turmeric—are zero-point ingredients that add incredible flavor to the dish. They also provide health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties from turmeric.

Why These Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls are Ideal for Weight Watchers:

  1. High in Protein: These quinoa and chickpea balls are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is important for muscle building, satiety, and overall health. Protein helps keep you full and satisfied, which is key for successful weight management.
  2. Packed with Fiber: Fiber is essential for digestive health and weight management, as it helps you feel fuller longer. The chickpeas, quinoa, and breadcrumbs all provide a good amount of fiber, making these balls a filling snack or meal option.
  3. Low in SmartPoints: At just 1 SmartPoint per ball, you can enjoy multiple servings of this snack or meal without worrying about exceeding your daily SmartPoint allowance. This makes them a great option for anyone who enjoys snacking while still staying on track with their weight loss or maintenance goals.
  4. Flexible and Customizable: This recipe is easy to adapt based on your preferences. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mixture, or experiment with different herbs and spices to change the flavor profile.
  5. Meal Prep Friendly: These baked chickpea and quinoa balls store well in the fridge for up to 5 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. You can batch-cook them at the beginning of the week and enjoy them throughout the week as a quick snack or part of your meals.

Tips for Customizing Your Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls:

  1. Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to boost the nutrition of these balls by incorporating additional vegetables like grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach. These can be added directly to the mixture to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
  2. Use Different Spices: The spices in this recipe—cumin, coriander, and turmeric—create a warm, earthy flavor, but you can customize them to suit your taste. Add smoked paprika for a smokier flavor, or chili powder for a spicy kick.
  3. Make Them Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumbs entirely and substitute with ground oats or ground flaxseed for binding.
  4. Add Cheese: If you’re not concerned about adding a few extra points, you can mix in some low-fat cheese like feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella for extra flavor and richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

  • Storage: Store leftover baked chickpea and quinoa balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: To reheat, bake the balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per ball, depending on your microwave’s power.

Final Thoughts:

The Weight Watchers Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls are an excellent addition to any meal plan. They’re high in protein and fiber, low in SmartPoints, and packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, an appetizer, or a healthy addition to a main meal, these plant-based protein balls are the perfect solution. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them ideal for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week. Enjoy them as a healthy snack, in wraps, or served with a simple salad for a filling, nutritious meal!