🥦 Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Balls
🌿 Description
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with wholesome flavor. Fresh broccoli, herbs, olive oil, and melty cheese come together to create a healthy, protein-rich snack or appetizer.
They’re baked instead of fried, making them lighter but still golden and delicious. Perfect for iftar platters, lunchboxes, or party appetizers.
🛒 Ingredients (Makes about 18–20 balls)
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2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 egg
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½ cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour)
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1 clove garlic, minced
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2 tbsp finely chopped onion
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp chopped parsley
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Broccoli
Steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender.
Drain well and finely chop.
Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
2️⃣ Mix
In a large bowl combine:
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Broccoli
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Mozzarella
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Parmesan
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Egg
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Breadcrumbs
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Garlic & onion
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Olive oil
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Herbs and seasonings
Mix until well combined.
3️⃣ Shape
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Roll mixture into small balls and place on tray.
Lightly spray or brush tops with olive oil for crispiness.
4️⃣ Bake
Bake 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
Flip halfway for even browning if desired.
For extra crisp, broil 2–3 minutes at the end.
🌟 Mediterranean Twists
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Add crumbled feta for Greek flavor
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Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes
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Add a pinch of chili flakes
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Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour for low-carb
🍽 Serving Ideas
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Serve with garlic yogurt dip
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Pair with marinara sauce
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Add to mezze platter with olives & hummus
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Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I air fry them?
Yes! Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–14 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze baked balls for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Q: Why are they falling apart?
They may need more breadcrumbs or the broccoli may be too wet.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Q: Are they kid-friendly?
Very! They’re cheesy and mild in flavor.
