Description
Crunchy on the outside, soft and herby inside, these lentil and nut-based balls are protein-packed, full of flavor, and perfect for appetizers, bowls, or meal prep. A plant-based delight with satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils, cooled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pepitas
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill or chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse lentils, nuts, seeds, and oats until the mixture is crumbly but sticks when pressed.
- Transfer to a bowl and mix in garlic, onion, herbs, spices, nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Form into small balls using your hands or a small scoop.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with dips, grain bowls, or tucked into wraps.
Notes
- Make a double batch and freeze extras for quick meals.
- Try with tahini sauce, vegan tzatziki, or tomato chutney.
- Great for adding to salads or grain bowls for added protein.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and even baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 balls
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg