Vegan Spinach Balls Recipe

Spinach balls are a delightful appetizer or snack, bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients. This vegan version offers all the savory goodness without any animal products. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a nutritious bite, these spinach balls will surely impress. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (ensure they’re vegan)
• 1/2 cup vegan parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed meal + 5 tablespoons water (for flax eggs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Flax Eggs: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed meal with water. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens, resembling the consistency of an egg. This will serve as a binding agent in the recipe.
3. Cook Spinach Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant, typically 2-3 minutes. Incorporate the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked spinach mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add breadcrumbs, vegan parmesan cheese (if using), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and the prepared flax eggs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Shape the Balls: With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each formed ball onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced to allow for even baking.
6. Bake: Once all the spinach balls are shaped and arranged on the baking sheet, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender interior.
7. Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the spinach balls to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese, if desired. These vegan spinach balls are best enjoyed warm and can be served with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoyed on their own as a flavorful snack.

Tips and Variations:

• For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped nuts or seeds into the mixture before shaping the balls.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be delightful additions.
• These spinach balls can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

With their savory taste and nutritious ingredients, these vegan spinach balls are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food, they offer a delicious way to incorporate leafy greens into your diet. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of these spinach balls and share them with friends and family for a delightful culinary experience!