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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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Ingredients
  

For the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

  • 2 cups broccoli, cooked, well drained and chopped
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 scallions, finely sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ tsp. salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil spray

For the Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce:

  • ⅔ cup plain yogurt
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • ½ garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat oven to 400°F.
  • Line tray with parchment paper.
  • Place all ingredients, except oil spray, in a bowl; mix well to combine, mashing up the broccoli as you go.
  • Scoop out one tablespoon of mixture; place in palm of your hand and firmly form into a ball.
  • Place cheese ball on tray; repeat with remaining mixture; should make 15 - 18 balls.
  • Spray with oil; place in the pre-heated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the surface is slightly crisp and golden.
  • In a small bowl, mix sauce ingredients together; set aside for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve with the garlic lemon yogurt sauce; also quite good when served with ketchup.

Notes

This recipe can be made with fresh or frozen broccoli; if using fresh, 1 giant head or 2 medium heads will be needed; ensure the broccoli is cooked until soft so it is easier to “mash” and mould into meatball shapes. 
To store, place in an airtight container and refrigerate; ror a quick re-heat, use the microwave or re-heat in the oven. 
These also freeze well once cooked; place in an airtight container and freeze; thaw and re-heat at 350°F for about 5 minutes. 
 
To convert to a gluten-free recipe, substitute breadcrumbs with 3/4 cup almond meal.