QUINOA + KALE PATTIES


First off, I wanted to thank you for all of your kind and enthusiastic responses about my book news. I'm deeply grateful and all the more inspired to make a delectable cookbook for all of you!

Okay. Now, let's get back to cooking...

After 3 years of growing food in our backyard, we're finally really getting what works and what doesn't. It pained us to recently tear out our entire raspberry patch, when we accepted that it just wasn't getting enough sun. But when it comes to greens and herbs, we can rock them all year round. Kale is the family fave and we have a whole bed devoted to growing all sorts of varietals - now we don't even have to make a trip to the market to procure some tasty greens. This makes my inner lazy cook especially happy!


Ever since I got Heidi Swanson's book last year, I've been wanting to make her quinoa patties. I often find myself with leftover cooked quinoa in the fridge and I end up eating it with all sorts of things... leftover roasted chicken, salsa, herbs, beans, and almost always avocado. Transforming leftover quinoa into hearty little savory cakes is brilliant and I love the versatility of Heidi's recipe. I think you could use quinoa or any other grain here - brown rice, millet, and/or amaranth would all be delish. And adding veggies to the mix seemed like a natural addition:  if you don't have kale, try spinach, broccoli, shitake mushrooms  - whatever you have on hand, or grow in your own backyard. Avocado, salsa verde, lemon, salt, cilantro, and garlic oil all were tasty topping for the patties we made, and I can imagine so many more ways to enjoy these savory cakes - I'm sure you can too.



INGREDIENTS adapted from Heidi Swanson's Super Natural Every Day
{printable recipe}

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 eggs, whisked
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 3 spring onions, sliced thin
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup steamed kale, chopped
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs ( GF friends: be sure to use GF breadcrumbs. I always make my own.*)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lemon juice, salsa verde, garlic oil



If you happen to already have leftover cooked grains on hand, this recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups. Otherwise, whip up some quinoa from scratch... Rinse 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly and place the grains in a medium sauce pan with 2 cups of water. Allow quinoa to soak for 15 minutes. Then, with the lid on the pan, bring the water to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook until quinoa is tender and has absorbed the liquid - about 20 minutes. Let cool to room temp.

In a large bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, eggs, Parm, spring onions, garlic, salt, steamed kale, and breadcrumbs. Let everything sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid. You want the batter to be moist, but not runny. Form patties and get your pan ready for cookin'.

Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook up to 6 patties at at time (don't overcrowd the pan). Cover the pan and let the cuties cook for 7-10 minutes until the underbellies are a deep rich brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 7-10 minutes until both sides are nice and brown. Let patties rest on a cooling rack while you finish the next batch.


I ate my patties topped with avocado, lemon juice, cilantro, a drizzle of really nice olive oil, and sea salt. If you want to pack your patties to eat for lunch at work and want an easy topping, just chop up some avocado and place it in a container with salsa verde and you're ready to go.

Note: If you don't want to eat all the patties right away, go ahead and refrigerate the batter and cook patties up to order at a later moment.

*A Note on gluten-free breadcrumbs... For my gluten-free friends who are new to making his/her own breadcrumbs, here's how you do it. Toast up a few slices of bread (or those lonely end-pieces) until they're dry. Tear the toasted bread up into chunks, toss them in the blender. Pulse a few times and you've got homemade breadcrumbs. So easy... and I love to put scraps to good use!

makes 12 small patties 

209 comments:

  1. Healthy and delicious looking! A wonderful combination.

    Your pictures are awesome! I really love the one with the leaf.

    Cheers,

    Rosa

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  2. Rosa, the quinoa cakes really were delish. Super healthy, and packed with flavor.
    xo
    E

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  3. I need to make these really soon! I have kale and qunioa in my house. Love that it is healthy and a fun take on quinoa! Your photos are simply stunning! Happy Monday!!

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    1. Happy Monday to you too Lisa. I bet you'd have a lot of fun with this recipe and all the great flavor combo possibilities. And I don't think you can go wrong with quinoa and kale.
      xo
      E

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  4. how long do u steam the kale?

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    1. Hey Trish, I hate to say, but I don't have a definitive time for you on the kale steaming (I always just wing it), but you do want to steam it until the leaves are tender and cooked through. The kale won't really cook more when it's in the quinoa cakes.

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  5. Sounds soooo good! I love quinoa - and I haven't had any in a while! And with the parm giving it a little cheesy-ness...yum. I will try this real soon!

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    1. Jane, doesn't good Parm make everything good!

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  6. I've been wanting to try making those, too, from Heidi's book. After procrastinating far too long now, you've got me sold. Off to the kitchen I go to grab some quinoa now....

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    1. Carolyn, I'm glad to finally get you to take the quinoa patty plunge;)

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  7. Your blog makes me smile every time. The photos knock my socks off and inspire me to get cookin'!

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    1. Thanks Rachel. Your comment makes me smile right back.

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  8. Beautiful photos, the patties look divine!! I always make this with whatever veggies I have on hand and I usually serve them with garlicky yogurt sauce. xx

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    1. Oh I bet your garlicy yogurt sauce is a great partner to the quinoa patties. Yum!
      xxoo
      E

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  9. Your quinoa patties look great- love the golden brown caramelization! I own Heidi's book and have been meaning to cook this recipe. You've definitely given me the push I need.

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    1. Jess, they really turned out well and all that nice carmelization happened with very little oil. Hope you enjoy the recipe!
      xo

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  10. These looks great - so crisp and delicious!

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  11. Rich and sumptuous photos as always. There is a glance into the mystery of the universe in a drop of water and the glint of sun. Beautifully captured.

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    1. atmoseats, wow! you always spoil me with the kindest words. Thank you.

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  12. Do you think there is a way to make these without eggs?

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    1. Hmmm... the eggs really seem to be key to holding the cakes together. But you could have a looser quinoa salad with all of the ingredients and it would be tasty I think.

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    2. What if you soaked some chis and used it as a binder? Healthy too!

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    3. Eggs are used as a binder. There's other options for binders besides using animal eggs. Flaxseed or chia seed eggs (1 tbspn +3 tbspn of water), let it sit for 3 minutes and it will be a binder with no cholesterol!

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    4. ( ^ I would be sure to use *ground* seeds for a binder - if not using eggs.)

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  13. Looks delicious, do you think I could swap the quinoa for farro?

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    1. Yes, I think farro would be so delicious here! That is one grain I really miss now that I can't eat gluten;)

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    2. Any way to substitute something other than the bread crumbs?? I'm wheat free...how can you do breadcrumbs if you're gluten free??

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    3. Hi Katie, I am totally gluten/wheat free and I buy GF sandwich bread at the market. I always save the butt ends of the bread and keep them in my freezer for breadcrumbs. Toast up the bread ends a bit until they are dry. Tear the toasted bread up into chunks, toss them in the blender. Pulse a few times and you've got homemade bread crumbs. So easy... and I love to put scraps to good use!

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  14. Wow, I just made these for supper tonight...AMAZING! I actually didn't use any additional toppings; they are good enough on their own! I'm so glad I found this blog :)

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    1. Oh great Wynia! That is so good to hear that you liked the patties. I think they are going to end up on heavy rotation at our house:)
      -E

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  15. It's about time I got on the quinoa patty bandwagon, huh? Yours look absolutely delicious, Erin.

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    1. Kathryne, Hop aboard! This is your kind of recipe - don't resist temptation;)
      xxoo
      E

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  16. I really need to get a copy of Heidi's book - I picked it up the other day and fell in love with all the recipes as I leafed through. These look delicious and totally agree on avocado - I could eat it with pretty much anything!

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    1. thelittleloaf, I think her book is quite brilliant and totally worth buying your own copy.

      Glad you to know you are a fellow avocado lover!

      xo
      E

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  17. Gorgeous! It's good that despite the sadness of ripping out your raspberry patch, you now have room for more of what works, and what your family can eat more of?

    It looks like all the sun you wanted to see in your backyard goes straight into your home, so you can take such lovely crisp photos! It's been years since I lived anywhere with decent southern exposure, I would choose more light inside any day:)

    We still have some kale out there that has suffered through a few frosts - I need to pick up some quinoa, but these are going on my things to make from the garden soon before winter hits list!

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    1. Emma, that is so insightful! I feel beyond lucky that we have dreamy southern light filling our kitchen (I think that's why I fell in love with the house in the first place) And you're right... I'd trade that any day over a dark house with a sunny yard. All good!

      I hope you like the quinoa/kale patties. So cool that you grow your own grains and seeds!

      xo
      E

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  18. I started eating quinoa very recently and although I am not a huge fan of it (because of it's bitter taste) I think it's important to eat healthy food. The patty sounds super tempting! I usually make something similar with couscous.

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    1. Kankana, I bet you'd like the quinoa here. I really don't get a hint of bitterness. I'd be curious to hear what you think.
      Oh, I do miss couscous - that's good stuff.
      xxoo
      E

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    2. kankana,

      Do you rinse your quinoa before you cook it? If you do not rinse it, the saponins on the outside of the quinoa can make it bitter.

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    3. Hi Robin, yes I suggest in the instructions to rinse thoroughly. So important.

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  19. That kale photo is BEAUTIFUL Erin! I love quinoa patties :-)

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    1. Thanks Emma. I love spending time out in the garden and that morning dew is always inspiring. I'm sure you know what I mean:)
      xxoo
      E

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  20. This looks exactly like my kind of recipe, bookmarked and can't wait to try it.
    Also, congrats on the book new Erin! WOW! I'm so happy and excited for you!

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    1. Hey there Denise, Thanks for the congrats... I'm so excited.
      I hope you enjoy the quinoa patties - they really are yummy.
      xo
      E

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  21. I saw that recipe in her book and was also drawn to it! Can't wait to check out the recipes in your upcoming book :)

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  22. Stephanie, I keep thinking about Heidi's recipe and wanting to try it. I'm glad I finally did, and I'm sure you will be too:)
    Thanks so much for the kind words about my book. I'm cooking like a wild woman over here... recipe testing etc. It's coming along really really well and I'm so excited share - it's hard to wait.
    xo
    E

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  23. I loe quinoa in every possible form and this one looks awesome!

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    1. Marta, Me too! We eat a lot of quinoa around here. Good stuff, isn't it?
      xo
      E

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  24. This is one of my favorite recipes from Heidi's book. I like to add chopped mint, basil and cilantro and then top with quick-pickled beets. I haven't made them in ages. Thanks for the reminder!
    p.s. I feel you on the avocado and quinoa. They just seem made for one another.

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    1. buckwheattobutter, the chopped herbs and pickled beets sound like great additions. Yum!

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  25. These sound great! I love when quinoa gets slightly brown and crunchy!

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  26. loved this recipe as did the whole family...my 3 year old was a little unsure but ate her whole patty! we topped ours with pico de gallo, avocado and a dap of sour cream, thank you!

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  27. Mary Jo, Thanks so much for taking the time to let me know about your experience with the recipe. It makes me so happy to hear that it was a hit with all!
    Pico de gallo, avo, and sour creme - yum!
    -E

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  28. All of my favourite things in one little patty! I planted kale this year but some evil little bugs chewed right through it - better luck next year. Your photos are so lovely, as always.

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  29. Oh no, sorry to hear about your kale. I know what you mean about battling little critters in the garden.... Somebody has eaten nearly every leaf off my little apricot tree! Ah nature;)
    xo
    E

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  30. I'm so jealous of your gardens of greens! I'm able to grow herbs, and that's about it. Your kale looks delicious in these patties. Love the avocado on top too.

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  31. Lisa, I have to say that herbs are my favorite things to grow and we grow at lot of them too. Isn't it so satisfying to be able to go out and snip just what you need? And we do feel lucky on the greens front - though we have to constantly battle hungry critters.
    xo
    E

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  32. Thanks for the great recipe! Quinoa is one of my favorite foods and I am alway looking for new ways to prepare it!

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  33. Hey there Cay, glad to be of help;)

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  34. This is so beautifully put together. I would love these patties. Gorgeous photo's and tone.

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    1. Thanks Laurie! That's so sweet of you to say:)

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  35. OMG Erin, this looks delicious! Cannot wait to try it. Thank you so much for sharing it and all the best with your book project!

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  36. Very beautiful photos of a very appetizing meal!

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  37. Love all the ingredients in this! Parm makes everything tastier if you ask me..

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    1. Diana, I'm with you... three cheers to the magic of Parm!

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  38. Made these this weekend. DELICIOUS!!! YUM - can't wait to have leftovers tonight. Just sauteed them in coconut oil and plopped them on top of a huge spinach salad. I can't believe I ate three of them, lol! THANK YOU! Definitely in my rotation.

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    1. Yay Rose! Thanks for letting me know. Coconut oil is such a great idea here - I'll try that next time. I love that stuff.
      Enjoy your leftovers:)

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  39. Those patties look fantastic Erin. Your photos are making my mouth water. I've only cooked with quinoa a few times, but it's something I am wanting to do more of and will certainly have to try these patties.

    By the way, congratulations on the book too. I'm so excited for you. I'm sure it will be absolutely stunning. I can't wait.

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    1. Jennifer, Welcome back from your honeymoon! And thanks for the book congrats and such nice words - I'm thrilled!
      xo
      E

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    2. These look delicious and feature 2 ingredients I just can't get enough of this fall.

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  40. Erin, I don't think I offered proper congratulations on your book! Congratulations!!!! That is superb news, and that it's published by Rodale just makes me so happy. I cannot wait to buy your book. So exciting!

    And, I also feel you on the settling of a garden. Somethings just don't work, but others do. It's been five years for my current garden, and I'm finally feeling it's stride.

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    1. Thanks so much Julia for your nice note about my book! I'm stoked that Rodale is the publisher - what an amazing history that house has, right?

      Good to hear that you too find it takes a while to settle into the rhythm of a garden. I think we're starting our 5th year too. Right after I wrote this post about having success with kale, the entire bed got covered in powdery mildew - working with nature is always humbling;)

      I hope you're well!
      xxoo
      E

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  41. I made these last night, and they were so good! They browned up nicely with just a little oil in a nonstick pan. My non vegetarian boyfriend sheepishly asked if he could have what I was cooking! I topped them with dollaps of plain Greek yogurt, and avocado that I had tossed with lots of lemon juice!

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    1. Yay! I'm so glad you liked the patties and that they even temped your beau. Thanks so much for letting me know how the cooking went in your kitchen: Greek yogurt, avo and lemon juice sounds like a delicious topping:)

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  42. I D.I.E. over Quinoa!!! It's so versatile and so delicious. Quinoa and Avocado is a great combo too. I just got done eating a bowl of my sister's 3 bean Quinoa chili.. so good. I can't wait to try these. and your pictures are fabulous.. :)

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    1. Thanks Sherice. I love quinoa too. I've been eating it every which way. 3 bean quinoa chili sounds really good!

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  43. I made these last night and they are sooooo good! They are my new favorite comfort food. Even my picky one year old ate them. :)I love that they are super easy and fast to make. Because with two kids that is an absolute must when it comes to picking recipes. Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Joy, I'm so glad you liked the patties. How can we go wrong with healthy comfort food that even a little one enjoys:)

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  44. Hi! These look delish do you think I could use giant cous cous instead of quinoa?

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    1. Hi Rachel, I think couscous would be great in this recipe! Let me know how it goes it you try it:)

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  45. Going to try this weekend. I got some rainbow quinoa.

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    1. Rainbow quinoa - that will be so pretty!

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    2. They were delicious! I am going to make another batch this weekend.

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  46. Baking the kale (like you would for making kale chips) was totally easy as well and gave a drier, roastier flavour. I simply washed off the kale, shook the water off a bit, and baked it on a tray in the oven at 350° until it looked crispy. It crumbled nicely into the quinoa/egg/parmesan/bread crumb mixture beautifully and I believe that it helped to hold things together that much more. Also, a handful of roasted sunflower seeds gave the patties a little extra love.

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    1. Renee, baking the kale is a great idea. We love crispy kale at our house (it's my kids' favorite for sure.) And I bet it does add a really nice bite to the patties.
      Thanks so much for sharing your ideas with us!

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  47. I am cooking them now and did use the rainbow quinoa. The quinoa looked like soil( smelled like it too at first) but it taste delicious after it's cooked! The smell of the patties is wondeful too.

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    1. Funny about the soil thing:) Glad they tasted good in the end!

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  48. Made the quinoa patties today and we loved them! Everything worked out perfectly, loved how they browned up so nicely. Reminded me of a potato pancake. I simply topped them with plain yogurt but will try avocado next time. Thanks for the recipe!

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    1. Oh good. I'm so happy to hear that the recipe made you happy. That makes me happy too.

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  49. I just made these. They are absolutely delicious!I found your site on Pinterest. You have so many good recipes. Thank you Thank you Thank you!

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    1. Thank you so much Shannon for leaving me such a sweet note:)

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  50. Quinoa-kale patties, awesome! I'm so making these for work lunch this week :) Although I love kale, I was wondering whether you've tried making these patties with any other green leafy veg? Like bok choy, spinach, escarole or the heck with it, tiny bits of celery? I feel inspired! :)

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  51. I think any tasty green would be great. Spinach for sure. Maybe with plenty of garlic. Yum! You're inspiring me right back:)

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  52. These look like such a hit! Definitely keeping them in mind for an appetizer during our next dinner party =)

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  53. I just made these and they were DELICIOUS!! Thank you so much! :-)
    -Aman

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    1. Great Aman! Thanks for letting me know:)

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  54. Quinoa is a new ingredient in my pantry. I had my first taste of it last week at a friend's home and liked it. So glad I stumbled upon your recipe; it looks delicious! By the way, love your pictures and nice blog! :)

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    1. Hey there Tina. Thanks for stopping by and welcome to quinoa. It's such a great grain (or "seed" I should say) to add to your cooking. We are big fans around here.
      Happy Thanksgiving to you!

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  55. This looks like a great recipe for my little one ...do you if frozen kale work ? Or does it have to be fresh kale ?

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    1. Frozen kale should be fine. Just saute or steam it up before adding it to the patties.
      Enjoy:)

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  56. Just want to add that I got this recipe via Pinterest, clicked thru to your site and made this fabulous recipe according to your directions exactly just yesterday...plus I added a few chopped crimini mushrooms and sliced almonds to the batter.

    They came out super wonderfully delicious! I even added the exact avocado, lemon juice cilantro embellishments...
    OH WOW! This is so yummy delicious and I had enough to save for another day.
    I have to commend you highly for sharing this recipe. I think it is one of the best ever, for me anyway.
    I have a sensitive diet, gluten free with other factors, so this one just fit me perfectly.
    Thank you so much!

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    1. Holly, thanks for this kind comment. I'm so glad the recipe worked for you. I bet the crimini and almonds were a great addition. I love nuts in just about everything!
      And the fact that the recipe worked for your diet is fantastic. I'm so happy when those of us with limitations can eat luscious foods with abandon.
      Warmly,
      Erin

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  57. Erin, I am making this again TODAY...WILL MAKE EVEN MORE SINCE THEY ARE GREAT REFRIGERATED FOR ANOTHER DAY AS WELL. THIS IS BY FAR MY VERY FAVORITE, SUPER HEALTY RECIPE.

    By combining the nuts and crimi and avocado...it also aids in thryoid probs like Hashimotos too.

    Cheers!
    Holly

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    1. Yay! Holly I'm so happy you are enjoying the recipe. And thanks for the info on adding nuts, crimini, and avo - so many of us could use a little thyroid help. I know I can.
      xo
      E

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  58. These. Look. FABULOUS! I have a question I'm hoping someone can answer. I'm not supposed to eat egg or cheese (allergies). I'm willing to cheat a little once in a while and eat cheese, but I'm more leery of egg.

    I often use chia seeds or ground flax seed meal in water as an egg replacer. Does anyone know if that would work in this recipe?

    My whole family loves quinoa and kale, so this would be perfect for us!!! :)

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    1. Hi RobynS, I haven't made the patties without egg, but one reader suggested using soaked chia as a binder, just as you mentioned. Maybe worth a try? And I think both chia and ground flax would add wonderful flavor and texture to the patties. I'd love to know how it goes for you if you give them a try.
      Another option would be to mix together all the ingredients (other then the eggs, and enjoy a nice grain bowl.
      Happy eating to you,
      e

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  59. hi--these look amazing--bringing them to a party of healthy eaters later this week. does anyone know if these would freeze well? if so, any thawing / re-heating advice would be appreciated! thanks again for this great recipe!

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    1. Hey there,I'm not sure if they would freeze well. I'm not sure what would happen to the egg? But the batter does refrigerate quite nicely.
      Anyone else tried freezing patties or batter?
      -E

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    2. Re: freezing - I'm going to try it. I'll also try to remember to post back with the results. The egg /should/ be okay, since it's incorporated into the mix. I'm more concerned about the raw green onion; you're supposed to blanche any raw veggies/fruits you're intending to freeze (something to do with enzymes and continued rupening/spoiling despite being in the freezer). So, I might toss the green onion in the steamer with the kale...

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  60. Has anyone ever baked these rather than frying them? I LOVE this recipe. I make these all the time. They always taste great but in general I try to stay away from fried food. I'm wondering if baking them will achieve the same taste.

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    1. Hi Shannon, I haven't heard of anyone baking the patties. One thing about cooking them in the pan... there is only 1 tiny teaspoon of olive oil to cook a whole slew of patties so there's not much frying going on. On the other hand, baking could work just fine. I'd love to know if you try it.
      Thanks,
      Erin

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  61. Michelle BourdonDecember 30, 2012

    Hi Erin,
    I just tried these vegan style (I have a baby highly allergic to eggs and dairy and peanuts and almonds....sigh!) and they were great.

    I substituted the following:
    Parmesan - a vegan cheese style alternative, closest to parmesan I could get (Vegusto).
    Eggs - 3 tbls flaxseed mixed with 10 tbls water and simmered until a thicker sticky consistency is achieved (but I probably only used 2/3 quantity in the end).

    I haven't tried your original recipe but baby Matisse and I loved this version. It was a great way to get more nutrients into my little avocado lovers diet.

    Thanks
    Mati's Mum

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    1. Michelle, Thank you so much for this great substitution information. SO so helpful!
      Warmly,
      Erin

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  62. Linked your post to my blog!
    http://domesticmother.blogspot.com/

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  63. These are so fantastic. I've made them for my kids several times, and they gobble them up. Tried them on my more frozen pizza oriented husband today, and he loved them. Had to use frozen spinach as a sub for the kale, it they still turned out beautifully. Thank you for this recipe and your wonderful blog!

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    1. Thanks Lucy for your sweet comment! I'm so glad the kale/spinach patties have been a hit with your family:)
      Happy new year to you,
      E

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  64. These are delicious!! My husband(the major meat eater) and I made them for dinner tonight and he loved them! Thanks so much! I will definitely be making more of these!

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    1. Oh good! I love that so many non-veggie guys are liking the quinoa patties.
      Take care Amanda,
      E

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  65. YES!! I made these tonight and they were incredible. Baking them worked out great. 400F for about 15min, a quick flip for another 8 or so minutes. . . Voila! I was a little worried about the runny consistency of my 'batter', but I referenced Heidi Swanson's recipe and she mentions that it's okay if it is a little on the wet side. My batter was very sticky, but I just plopped it on the sheet pan and shaped them before sending them to the oven. Also, instead of steaming the kale, I tore it into small pieces and tossed them in a frying pan with a little olive oil until they were just cooked through. For a little kick I threw in a pinch of red pepper flakes too. I think that next time I'll put the pepper flakes in with the quinoa as it cooks to distribute the heat a little better. Overall, GREAT recipe, and it will be re-occurring in my kitchen! Thank you :-)

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    1. Hannah, Thanks so much for sharing your experience with baking the patties. I was curious to see if that would work. Great news!

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  66. Your photography is so beautiful! I made these tonight and my whole family LOVED them! My 9 year old daughter is allergic to dairy and egg so I split the batter and made half for her, (no substitutions just left out egg and parm) and they were delicious! The texture was actually really nice and crispy minus the egg and they still stayed together. My 7 year old son who won't eat anything green ate 4 patties! My husband and I enjoyed both versions. Thank you so much!

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  67. Yum! For vegans: Sub egg replacer for the eggs, sub nutritional yeast for the parm.

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  68. This is a great recipe! I am a rookie cook but these turned out really well - my whole family ate them! Thanks so much :)

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    1. Katie, so good to hear that the recipe worked out for you and your family. I love hearing about rookies taking charge in the kitchen. We all start as rookies, right?

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  69. Wow, such beautiful pictures! Actually I am not a vegetarian but I love recipe like this one which are just perfect without meat. I love quinoa but I have never thought about making patties, such a wonderful idea.

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    1. Deukap, I'm with you as a meat-eater who enjoys a solid veggie dish!
      Cheers,
      E

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  70. Made these with my vegetarian breastfeeding daughter in mind and they were great! Also made a great grab and go lunch for work the next day.

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  71. I tried these tonight and OMG, absolutely DELICIOUS!!! Even my 2 year old enjoyed them!! Thank you so much for posting!!! Such a nice healthy dinner! LOVE LOVE LOVE!

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    1. YAY! I'm so happy the recipe made your entire family smile.

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  72. Look delicious. I recently made the Parmesan Quinoa Bites from another website, and think I will incorporate your idea in making these in a muffin tin as well. Love all this great, healthy food. Getting ready to try a Qunioa Breakfast Bake--hope all goes well.

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  73. Absolutely delicious! I make weekly meals, and for the first time in a year this meal I have made two weeks in a row! Any chance you have the nutritional content/information? I work as health advisor and would love to share this recipe with its nutritional info. THANK YOU~!

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  74. Carina, so glad you are enjoying the quinoa patties! Sorry but I don't know the nutritional info.

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  75. These were insanely delicious. Everyone in my house LOVED them. I'm not a very proficient cook and this was so easy to follow. I will be making them again and again and again. Thank you!! Oh, by chance do you have any suggestions for a side dish that would compliment them?

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    1. Amy I'm so glad the patties worked for your family! Because of the layers of goodies involved, I usually served the patties and all their toppings as a meal all by themselves. But an arugula salad with a lemony garlic dressing could be a really nice side here:)

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    2. Thank you! My friend and I had 2 patties and we were good with just that as a meal, my boyfriend ate 4. haha I thought maybe if I had a side we could have more leftovers. There were 2 patties leftover and he ate them as soon as he got up and was asking when I would make more. I'd say they were a success. :)

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  76. I can't wait to try these! Thank you :)

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  77. We've started a MMEW (Move More, Eat Well) group here in our small island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean to encourage each other to get more exercise and to find more healthy everyday recipes. I made this for our group meeting today - everyone loved it! Thank you so much. Your culinary skills are spreading across the globe.

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    1. Janet, thanks for your sweet note! I'm thrilled that you are enjoying the quinoa and kale patties all the way across the globe. What a treat for me to hear.
      xo
      E

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  78. I made these today, and I have to say they were outstanding! I did use spinach instead, it's what I had on-hand. Thank you for sharing your wonderful recipe :)

    I was wondering if anyone had tried cooking them all, then freezing them? Not sure best way to reheat (microwave vs toaster oven).

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    1. Hi there, I haven't tried freezing the patties myself. But maybe reheating them covered in a 350 oven? That seems to work for just about everything:)

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  79. I made these last week and they were wonderful! I loved the texture and the avocado/lemon/oil/salt/cilantro topping was great. The only thing that was a little disappointing is that they were kind of tough when they were reheated (in the microwave) - maybe next time I'll either cut the recipe down or attempt to freeze some of the (uncooked) patties. Great blog!!

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    1. Hey there Ashley, that makes sense that the patties got tough in the microwave - microwaves do odd things to eggs. You can store the uncooked batter in the fridge in a covered container overnight and cook up new patties the next day. Just a thought.

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  80. How do you steam kale?

    Thanks

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    1. Hi Angela, do you have a steamer insert that will fit into a saucepan or stockpot? I use mine all the time to steam my greens. If you don't have a steamer, you can blanch the greens in a pot of hot water until they are tender. I prefer steaming as you lose less of the nutrients.

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    2. a covered dish in the microwave for 1 minute does the job, quick 'n easy, and just the moisture from rinsing/preparing the greens is just enough to steam them to perfection!

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  81. These are absolutely delicious!!! Try this version!!!!!.....Quinoa, chopped raw spinach, whole wheat breadcrumbs, parm cheese, eggs and crumbled feta cheese......FETA!!!!! Wonderful!!!!!!!!!!

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  82. these came out very tasty and texturally interesting...just made 2 test cakes and will go ahead and serve them along side my chicken dish tonight.(my husband is highly reactive to corn products, i think, he will think, that i am serving him a corn cake, he misses corn so much so this should be a real treat for him w/o the worry!

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  83. I am so glad that I found this recipe via Pinterest! I just made a batch tonight and they are delish! I can't wait to have one with my salad at lunch tomorrow! Have you calculated the nutritional value per pattie? I just logged the major ingredients into myfitnesspal.com and it resulted in approx. 130 calories per pattie (12 patties in the recipe). Does that sound about right?

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  84. Thank you for this beautiful recipe! It is spectacular! We are vegan so I used "fleggs" in place of eggs (1 tbsp ground flax to 3 tbsp water for each egg) and vegan parm in place of regular. I also added minced onion, not because it was missing but because I love it so much and could serious eat minced onion on anything. What a great recipe! Thanks again

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  85. AnonymousMay 03, 2013

    found these on pinterest and they were amazing!! my boyfriend suggested adding tiny bits of salmon which i think would be amazing! i paired them with guac made of avocado, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cilantro, all on top of a toasted whole wheat bun! the only thing i have to say is i did have to add an extra egg to keep them from falling apart, but it may have been my breadcrumbs? i used panko, but not sure. anyway great great recipe!

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  86. AnonymousMay 28, 2013

    I made these this morning without breadcrumbs because we never have bread in the house, and used only two eggs to dry up the mix and added a bunch of parsley so they were super green. Made four biggies and they turned out more similar to latkes than falafel. So tasty with avocado and salsa verde! They travel well, too.

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  87. AnonymousJune 05, 2013

    Made these with frozen spinach, yellow onion and topped with guacamole/hummus from Trader Joes (all things I had on hand)....SO delish!

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  88. AnonymousJune 25, 2013

    These were awesome! It is a keeper. Do you have a calorie count for these?

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    1. Glad you liked them. I don't have a calorie count. Sorry:(

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  89. AnonymousJune 28, 2013

    How do you think this would taste if I used lemon pepper breadcrumbs? It's all I have on hand...

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    1. Delish! Go ahead and use your lemon pepper breadcrumbs. Sounds wonderful. Xo e

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  90. I "tweaked" the recipe a little bit. Used swiss chard because that's what was growing in my garden. Did not bother to make them into patties once I took a taste. This recipe is wonderful!

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  91. I'm sharing this with everyone and also on pinterest!

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  92. Do you think that these patties would freeze well? I am trying to stockpile some healthy meals because I'm getting ready to have a baby and will not have as much time to cook for awhile. What do you think?

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    1. Brianne, I haven't tried freezing the patties, but I'm guessing that would work. So smart of you to stockpile nourishing food for after birth. Good luck with this great adventure that awaits you!!

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  93. Anything I could sub for the cheese?

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    1. Hi Rebekah, I really like subbing just a sprinkling of nutritional yeast for parmesan. I haven't tried that in this recipe, but I bet it would be delish!

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  94. FYI, your recipe was hijacked here, found it on pinterest.

    http://makingitwithdanielle.com/2013/06/13/kale-quinoa-patties/

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  95. I just made these for my lunch and they were delicious! I had 4 big patties, couldn't stop myself! Even my hubby loved them. He said they reminded him of stuffing (he's weird) but it gave me an idea that you could make a stuffing flavored version, by cooking the quinoa in chicken broth and adding the same herbs/seasonings as stuffing. That would make a yummy lunch item for Thanksgiving day! :)

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    1. So glad you guys liked them! And I think you're totally right that you could make a stuffingesque version of the patties. Chicken stock, lots of fresh sage, celery.... Great idea! I'm really excited for Thanksgiving. Can you tell:)
      xo
      E

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  96. I just made these and was finishing them up on the stove when my husband walked in from a long day at work. He grabbed a hot one and devoured it. Normally I wouldn't take the time to comment as I'm more of a casual pinterest recipe hunter but I simply HAD to post because what happened next was just amazing to me! After he scarfed down his yummy patty he said "OMG! I'm stealing a few of these to take upstairs to my parents!" (We live in a duplex and my in-laws have the upstairs apartment) So why is this so astounding to me? Because we've been married for almost 16 years now and this is only the 2nd time he's ever taken something I've cooked up to his parents to try out! :P We've all made it our mission to try new and healthy foods instead of the heavy greasy stuff we've been eating for years. Needless to say, this easy peasy little recipe was a bit hit. Thank you for sharing...I have your site bookmarked and will be back! ~*hugs*~

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  97. I just made these and was finishing them up on the stove when my husband walked in from a long day at work. He grabbed a hot one and devoured it. Normally I wouldn't take the time to comment as I'm more of a casual pinterest recipe hunter but I simply HAD to post because what happened next was just amazing to me! After he scarfed down his yummy patty he said "OMG! I'm stealing a few of these to take upstairs to my parents!" (We live in a duplex and my in-laws have the upstairs apartment) So why is this so astounding to me? Because we've been married for almost 16 years now and this is only the 2nd time he's ever taken something I've cooked up to his parents to try out! :P We've all made it our mission to try new and healthy foods instead of the heavy greasy stuff we've been eating for years. Needless to say, this easy peasy little recipe was a bit hit. Thank you for sharing...I have your site bookmarked and will be back! ~*hugs*~

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  98. Thank you for taking the time to leave this sweet message. I'm so happy you enjoyed the recipe!
    Xo
    E

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  99. I made these last night and thought they were absolutely delicious! Sure to become a staple... mine didn't hold their shape every well in the pan though. Would another egg fit it? Let me know what I should try!

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    1. Hey there Emily. You could try cooking the quinoa in a little less water. 1 Cup quinoa to 1.5 cups water and it will be dryer. Then you could add another egg to help with the binding.

      Let me know how it goes for you!

      E

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  100. Made these tonight. They were great! I do think they need some type of sauce on top--I actually had some honey mustard but added some extra honey for a sweeter rather than sour taste. I also would add salt to taste. I didn't use onions, but used fresh sage and scallions. I also added some turmeric (because it is SO good for you), and made them with spinach instead of kale. YUMMY!!! Quinoa and spinach and kale are best friends at my house!!!

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  101. Absolutely amazing, I made a few minor changes, but in the end so yummy. I used mozzarella, and only 1/2 c of gf bread crumbs. These are going to be a staple around here. The possibilities are endless, spinach instead of kale, broccoli too. Oh my I need to stop typing and eat more of these.

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  102. I almost forgot the sauce I made was, goats milk yogurt, jalapeno, cilantro, lemon juice, salt and cumin give that a whirl in the blender.

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  103. I made these on the weekend and absolutely loved them (as did my Sister). First time tryer of Quinoa and yum...love it.

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  104. I made these on the weekend - first time trier of Quinoa. I served mine with a small dollop of fresh tomato, onion and garlic etc (bit like ratatouille) These are so tasty and delicious, will definitely make again. Thanks

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  105. I cooked my quinoa in low sodium chicken broth, took out salt from the recipe and squeezed fresh lemon on top on the patties! Delicious!

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  106. Whoa! That looks delightful and yummy! I'd love to grab a bite on this quinoa recipe patty. I'd love to try that. Lemme include this to my yummy recipes pinterest board. Thanks for sharing your recipe.

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  107. Looks so delight. I'd love to have this one!

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  108. Can these be baked in a oven instead of fried in a pan?

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    1. I have only tried them in a pan, so I'm not sure. But if you try them in the oven, let us know how it goes:)

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  109. These must be eaten with fresh a fresh Greek yogurt sauce dallop on top!!! Only way I'll eat them.

    VERY good.

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  110. Hi Erin, I just posted my version of your fantastic patties on my blog and linked back to this page. http://petitworldcitizen.com/2014/11/25/kale-and-quinoa-patty-cakes-and-the-terrible-twos/
    Thanks so much for the inspiration!

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  111. Are you able to freeze these for a later date?

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    1. Audrey, I haven't tried freezing the patties myself. But I think it would be worth giving it a try:)

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  112. I LOVE this recipe!!! I have found that greasing a muffin tin, putting some of this mix in, and baking it works REALLY well, and helps them hold their shape. I put them into individual sandwich bags and freeze them. I take them to work with me for snacks/breakfast (I start work early!), and microwave And heat! They're delicious :) thanks for sharing!

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    1. Hey there, thanks for letting me know about this clever move... love the muffin tin idea! xoxo

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  113. Hi, Can you please tell me, is it 1 cup of Kale after its steamed, or before its steamed? this results in 2 different amounts:)

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    1. Hi Sharon, it's 2 cups steamed kale (not raw), but really you can play around with the veggie ratio here depending on your personal preference. Have fun with the recipe:)
      Thanks,
      Erin

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So good to hear from you... I appreciate each and every note you leave for me!

Thanks,
E