Vegan Spinach Balls are a fantastic plant-based twist on a classic party snack. Packed with spinach, chickpea flour (or breadcrumbs), and savory seasonings, these bites are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a side dish. They’re crispy, flavorful, and high in fiber and protein, making them a great option for a light meal or a fun party treat!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 1/2 cup chickpea flour (or breadcrumbs, for a more traditional option)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for binding)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or more, for frying)
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional, for extra binding and nutrition)
  • 2 tbsp water (to activate flaxseed, if using)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the spinach:
    • If using fresh spinach, wash and chop it finely. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain any excess water. Squeeze the spinach to remove as much moisture as possible.
  2. Prepare the flax egg (optional):
    • In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. This will act as your egg substitute and help bind the ingredients.
  3. Mix the ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, chickpea flour (or breadcrumbs), nutritional yeast, chopped onion, garlic, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and the flax egg (or you can use an egg substitute if preferred). Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold together when you form it into balls. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if it’s too dry, add a little more water.
  4. Form the balls:
    • Using your hands, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, placing the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper.
  5. Cook the spinach balls:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the spinach balls in batches and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Be gentle when flipping, as these balls can be delicate. You can also bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.
  6. Serve:
    • Once cooked, remove the spinach balls from the skillet and let them cool slightly on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as vegan ranch or marinara sauce, or enjoy them on their own!

Nutrition (per serving, approximate):

  • Calories: 70-90 kcal (2 balls)
  • Carbohydrates: 10-12g
  • Protein: 2-3g
  • Fat: 3-4g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sodium: 150-250mg (depends on salt and seasonings used)

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used (e.g., breadcrumbs or oil).

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with spinach, fiber, and plant-based protein, these spinach balls are a great option for a light and healthy meal or snack.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these spinach balls are an easy dish to prepare for any occasion.
  • Crispy & Flavorful: The crispy outside and tender inside make these spinach balls irresistible, and the savory flavor will have everyone coming back for more!
  • Customizable: Feel free to add other veggies, spices, or herbs to make the recipe your own. You could even add vegan cheese for an extra layer of flavor!