Description
This recipe provides an easy guide to making sesame-crusted spinach balls with a vibrant red pepper dip, perfect as a healthy weeknight meal, appetizer, or snack. These wholesome, flavorful balls offer a satisfying golden crunch and can be adapted for various dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 10–12 oz (280-340g) fresh spinach
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (panko or whole wheat)
- 0.5 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 0.25 cup (35g) sesame seeds
- 2 large red bell peppers
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese or cashew cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.25 tsp nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 clove garlic
- 1–2 Tbsp milk (optional)
Instructions
- Wilt and Drain Spinach: Cook fresh spinach in a large skillet for 3-5 minutes until fully wilted and bright green. Squeeze out all excess water thoroughly; it should feel very dry to the touch.
- Mix Ball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine well-drained spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form and Coat: Roll the mixture into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. Roll each in sesame seeds for an even crust. If the mixture looks too dry to form cohesive balls, splash in 1-2 Tbsp milk. A small cookie scoop helps keep the individual balls consistent.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Arrange balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and firm.
- Prepare Red Pepper Dip: Roast red bell peppers until charred. Peel, then blend with cream cheese, 1 clove garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne in a food processor until smooth.
Notes
Thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent soggy balls. Do not overmix the ball mixture, as this can lead to a tough texture. Ensure your baking sheet is lightly oiled or lined with parchment for easy removal. Store leftover spinach balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 balls with dip
- Calories: 280 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg