Acne-Safe Quinoa Patties with Green Goddess Sauce

Eating for clear skin doesn’t have to be boring. These Acne-Safe Quinoa Patties are packed with protein, anti-inflammatory herbs, and skin-loving nutrients. Paired with a creamy, dairy-free Green Goddess Sauce, they’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack.

This recipe avoids common acne triggers like dairy, refined flours, and high omega-6 oils while keeping flavor and texture front and center.

Ingredients – Patties (Makes ~16 small patties)

• 1 cup (200 g) dry quinoa, rinsed

• 1 ½ cups (400 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 large carrot, finely grated

• ½ bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1 ½ tsp curry powder (Madras, garam masala, or tandoori masala)

• ½ tsp sea salt, or more to taste

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ cup (50 g) quick oats (gluten-free if needed)

• 1 tbsp potato starch, cornstarch, or rice starch (optional for binding)

• 2 tsp avocado oil + more for pan-frying

Ingredients – Acne-Safe Green Goddess Sauce

• 1 ripe avocado

• ½ cup fresh parsley

• ½ cup fresh basil

• 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onion

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt

• 1 clove garlic

• Sea salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions – Patties

1. Rinse quinoa well. Add to a pot with vegetable broth, bring to a boil, and cook on low according to package directions (about 15–20 min).

2. While quinoa cooks, grate carrot and chop parsley, onion, and garlic.

3. Heat 2 tsp avocado oil in a skillet. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, carrot, parsley, onion-garlic mix, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

5. Sprinkle oats and potato starch over the mixture, stir to combine. Let rest for 10 minutes (or chill overnight).

6. Shape into ~16 patties (50–55 g each) with damp hands.

7. Heat 2–3 tbsp avocado oil in a non-stick pan. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

Instructions – Sauce

1. Blend all sauce ingredients until creamy, adding a splash of water if needed.

2. Chill until ready to serve.

🌿 Skin Benefits of Each Ingredient

Quinoa – Low-glycemic and high in zinc, which helps heal skin and regulate oil production.
Carrot – Packed with beta-carotene (vitamin A), supporting healthy skin cell turnover.
Parsley – Rich in vitamin C for collagen support and brightening.
Garlic & Onion – Natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Curry Spices – Anti-inflammatory, especially if your blend contains turmeric.
Avocado – Healthy fats to calm redness and hydrate skin from within.
Basil & Parsley in Sauce – Antioxidants to protect against free radical damage.
Coconut/Almond Yogurt – Probiotic-rich for gut health, which is linked to clearer skin.
Olive Oil – Anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fats to support skin barrier function.