Vegan vegetable balls made with wholesome veggies and herbs. Baked or air-fried for a healthy plant-based appetizer.
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli or zucchini
- ½ cup cooked lentils or chickpeas, mashed
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or oats (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ First, preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Next, prepare the flax egg by mixing flaxseed with water. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Then, combine carrots, broccoli, mashed lentils, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, flax egg, garlic, and spices in a bowl.
4️⃣ After that, mix until the ingredients are evenly combined.
5️⃣ Meanwhile, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6️⃣ Then, lightly brush or spray the balls with olive oil.
7️⃣ Afterward, bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and firm.
8️⃣ Finally, remove from the oven and serve warm.
💡 Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, pan-sear after baking.
- Alternatively, air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
- For spicy flavor, add chili flakes or cayenne.
- For Italian-style, add basil and oregano.
- Additionally, serve with marinara, tahini, or vegan gravy.
🌟 Benefits of Vegan Vegetable Balls
First, these vegetable balls are packed with fiber and nutrients.
Additionally, lentils provide plant-based protein.
Moreover, baking reduces the need for excess oil.
Furthermore, this recipe is dairy-free and cholesterol-free.
In addition, it’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Finally, it’s a tasty way to enjoy more vegetables.
📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
To make these veggie balls kid-friendly, reduce garlic and spices. Use mild vegetables like zucchini and carrots. Shape into smaller balls and serve with ketchup or mild tomato sauce.
