Baked Chickpea Zucchini Balls (Vegetarian Meatballs)
These chickpea zucchini balls are made with cooked chickpeas, fresh zucchini, and seasonings. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Enjoy them baked or air-fried with a dipping sauce for extra flavor! Perfect for an appetizer or snack. These versatile zucchini bites can also be added to wraps, salads, curries, or grain bowls!
Servings: 10
Calories: 67kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 cup chickpeas
- 2 medium zucchini shredded
- ¼ cup loosely packed parsley (or use cilantro)
- 2 small garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Trim one end, grate it, mix some salt, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Then, use cheesecloth or your hands to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, add the chickpeas, parsley or cilantro, garlic cloves, chia seeds, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined. Mix this mixture with the grated zucchini.
- Form the balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400F. Place the balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. Turn on broil mode and broil for 1-2 minutes or until they get the desired color.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or in wraps and salads!
Notes
- Removing Moisture: Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini to prevent the mixture from being too wet and difficult to shape.
- Texture Tip: Do not over-blend the ingredients in the food processor—some texture helps the balls hold their shape better.
- Binding Alternative: If the mixture feels too wet, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb excess moisture, or add a small amount of breadcrumbs.
- Cooking Method: For a healthier option, bake or air fry these meatballs or shallow fry them in a frying pan for a crispier texture.
- Air Fried Zucchini Balls: Place the balls in a preheated air fryer at 390F, spray or lightly brush with oil, and cook for 12-15 minutes, until light brownish golden. Shake them every 5 minutes. After 12 minutes, check them every 2 minutes to see if the desired color is achieved.
- See the Helpful Tips section for more tips.
Nutrition
Calories: 67kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 239mg | Potassium: 190mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 212IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg