Quinoa Burgers

Quinoa + Garlicky White Bean Dip = Extraordinary Veggie Burger Awesomeness...times ten.

I kind of went over the top with that one, didn't I?

These little patties just blew my mind though. I loved the surprising addition of quinoa, which kicked up the protein content supremely. And using Garlicky White Bean Dip as a binding agent? Pure brilliance, I tell you.

Tonight, we devoured these patties burger-style: loaded up with all the fixins' on a whole wheat sandwich thin (don't forget the avocado slices). And to top off the vegan-licious-ness of this dish, we used leftover Garlicky White Bean Dip as a spread for the buns. Tomorrow, these babies will transform into a crumbly mix-in for my lunch salad.

And yes, I'm one of those people whose office perpetually smells like garlic. I practically wear the stuff as perfume.

These burgers are dairy-free and vegan-happy, but if you're craving some cheesy goodness, a slice of white sharp cheddar melted on top would suit just fine.

(Psssst...If you're looking for more meat-less burger ideas, check out my Greek White Bean Burgers or Vegan Veggie Burgers).

Quinoa Vegan Burgers
(adapted from this recipe from the Savvy Vegetarian; makes about 6 patties)

These burgers are "soft" in nature, meaning they don't form a firm patty as you may be used to with other veggie burgers. Feel free to up the "filler" content (e.g., whole wheat flour perhaps) to make a firmer patty.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa (we used red quinoa)
• 1/2 - 3/4 cup Garlicky White Bean and Pine Nut Spread (or about 1/2 cup of your favorite hummus)
• 1 TBSP tomato paste
• 2 TBSP ground flaxseed
• 1 TBSP soy sauce
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp. cumin
• 1/2 tsp. paprika
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• Optional: a dash of whole wheat flour to bind/firm the mixture
• Burger fixins' (tomato, spinach leaves, avocado slices, pickle, and extra white bean dip)

Directions:

1) Super Easy! Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mash/mix until thoroughly combined and you are able to form patties. Refrigerate for about 1 hour (if you have time. I didn't, so I skipped this step)

2) Form into 6 patties. Heat a dash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for about 3 - 4 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned. Serve with your burger fixins' or over a spinach salad.