Crispy Parmesan Quinoa Cakes

Ingredients:

1.5 cups raw quinoa*

1 scallion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped parsley

2 tbsp fresh chopped oregano

1 cup panko bread crumbs

4 large eggs, beaten

olive oil, for pan frying

salt

black pepper

*If you already have leftover cooked quinoa, you will need 3 cups of cooked quinoa for this recipe.

Directions:

To cook the quinoa, rinse it well in a strainer with cold running water for a minute, then place in a saucepan with 3 cups water and a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cover with a lid, reduce to a simmer over medium low heat, and cook for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork or spatula, and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Add the scallion, garlic, parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, and panko bread crumbs, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to the quinoa, and toss to combine. Then add the beaten eggs, and stir until the quinoa is moistened.
Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, pack the quinoa mixture very firmly into the cup, then tap the cup on a flat surface to get the quinoa cake to release. Repeat with the remaining quinoa mixture.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan over medium heat, then fry the quinoa cakes for 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the quinoa cakes to a paper towel to drain. Serve immediately, and enjoy!