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Cheesy Baked Kale Bites

Cheesy Baked Kale Bites

Cheesy Baked Kale Bites are golden-bottomed little bites with tender, cheesy centers made from blanched kale, peas, mozzarella, Parmesan, cornmeal, and egg. They bake in about 18-20 minutes and are an easy make-ahead appetizer or snack that reheats in the microwave for 15 seconds.
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Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:18 minutes
Total Time:28 minutes
Course: Appetizers

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • baking sheet
  • Measuring Cups

Ingredients

  • 2 bunches kale stems removed; about 6 lightly packed cups or 4 ounces of leaves
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas thawed (or roasted almonds or sunflower seeds)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/4 cup cornmeal
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or pizza seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat, nonstick-sprayed foil, or parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Place the kale and 1 cup water in a wide skillet. Cover and heat over medium for about 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
  3. Drain the kale, let it cool briefly, then squeeze dry; you should have about 1 cup blanched kale when slightly packed into a measuring cup.
  4. Put the blanched kale and the rest of the ingredients into the bowl of a food processor. Process, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed, until the mixture is finely ground.
  5. Use a 1-tablespoon measuring spoon to portion the mixture, scooping and gently pushing it out of the spoon with your finger onto the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until firm to the touch and just starting to turn golden brown on the bottom. Serve warm with salsa or ketchup.

Notes

These bites store well, so you can make them ahead and store them in the fridge in anairtight containerfor up to 5 days. Heat briefly for 15 seconds in the microwave before serving.
Use another type of shredded cheese if preferred.