Sun-Dried Tomato Quinoa Patties with Kale and Pesto

Prep: 20 minCook: 20 min12 servingsmediumAmerican
Sun-Dried Tomato Quinoa Patties with Kale and Pesto

These protein-packed quinoa patties combine nutty quinoa with savory sun-dried tomatoes, fresh kale, and aromatic pesto for a satisfying vegetarian meal. The mixture forms into tender, golden patties that hold together beautifully when baked. Perfect as a meatless burger alternative, served over salads, or as a wholesome side dish. The combination of quinoa and eggs provides complete protein, while the sun-dried tomatoes add intense umami flavor that pairs wonderfully with the earthy kale and herb-rich pesto.

Ingredients

12 servings
  • 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
  • ½ cup onion, minced
  • 1 cup kale, deboned and finely chopped
  • ½ cup sun dried tomato, drained and chopped
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons pesto
    tahini3 tbspdairy-free

    Provides similar richness

    Full guide →
  • 2 large eggs
    flax eggs2 flax eggsveganeggs-free

    Mix 2 tbsp ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp water

    Full guide →
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    almond flour1:1gluten-freegluten-free

    Use for gluten-free version

  • salt(optional)
  • pepper(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F and spray baking sheet with cooking spray

  2. 2

    Cook quinoa according to package directions

  3. 3

    Combine all ingredients in medium mixing bowl

  4. 4

    Scoop heaping quarter cup of mixture and form into burger-shaped patties

  5. 5

    Repeat until all mixture is used

  6. 6

    Bake for 15-20 minutes

Tips

Tip 1

Let quinoa cool slightly before mixing to prevent eggs from cooking when combined

Tip 2

Wet hands when forming patties to prevent sticking and achieve cleaner shapes

Tip 3

These patties freeze well - wrap individually and store up to 3 months

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate cooked patties up to 4 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Can form patties and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking

Serve With

Serve warm on buns, over salads, or with fried eggs

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip draining sun-dried tomatoes to avoid soggy patties

Watch

Form patties firmly but gently to prevent cracking during baking

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

pesto
tahini3 tbspdairy-free

Provides similar richness

Full guide →

Vegan Options

eggs
flax eggs2 flax eggsveganeggs-free

Mix 2 tbsp ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp water

Full guide →

Gluten-Free Swaps

all-purpose flour
almond flour1:1gluten-freegluten-free

Use for gluten-free version

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes, substitute with 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water, let sit 5 minutes) for binding.

How long do these keep in the freezer?

Wrap cooked patties individually and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

What if my mixture seems too wet to form patties?

Add an extra tablespoon of flour gradually until mixture holds together when squeezed in your palm.