Recipe: Broccoli-Cheddar Bites

Inspired by the vegetable nuggets & bites you see in the freezer aisle, these homemade broccoli-cheddar bites are fresh, unprocessed, loaded with nutrients, and full of flavor.  Not to mention, easy to make and freezer friendly.  So say goodbye to the boxed stuff and hello to these.  Serve with veggies and hummus, fresh fruit, or your favorite dipping sauce. And feel free to get creative with the shape – I make them into boring ol’ ovals, but you could easily bust out a heart or star shaped cookie cutter for a fun twist.

Broccoli-Cheddar Bites

9 months + up

Makes approx. 20 bites

1. 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into small florets (about 1/2 lb.)

2. 2 eggs, lightly beaten

3. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free, if necessary)

4. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

5. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

6. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

7. 1/2 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 375.

Boil broccoli until cooked through and soft.  Remove from water and submerge into ice water to stop the cooking process.  Drain and place in a food processor, pulse until very coarsely chopped.  Place broccoli in bowl, add remaining ingredients.  Mix until combined. Add more breadcrumbs if the mixture seems too sticky.

With damp hands, form the mixture into bites.  Place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.  Store in fridge for up to 3 days or freezer for up to 2 months.

Variations: add cooked potatoes, cauliflower or white beans to the mixture.

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