Greek Style Quinoa Black Bean Burger

Quite often when one thinks of having a Burger - it's usually fast food,

 and after eating it - not very satisfying at all.

  Well here is a healthier version for you, dress it up to your tastes,

 add some oven fries and a side salad and voila!

When you are hungry the thought of biting into a nice hearty burger is so enticing my family

can't wait to dig in.  I recently came across a recipe for a Quinoa Burger (Body & Soul) that

sounded delicious.  This is my adaptation of their recipe.  I had made some Sourdough Maneesh (pita pockets) the day before so this burger was perfect to stuff the pocket with.  I also made up some Avocado/Yogurt Dressing that I drizzled over the burger.   It was very filling, and so very satisfying.

 

 

Greek Style Quinoa Black Bean Burger

Greek Style Quinoa Black Bean Burger Recipe

 

 

 Yield Serves 5

Ingredients

1/2 cup rinsed quinoa

1 medium carrot, cut in large chunks

6 scallions, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic

1 can (540 ml) black beans, drained and rinsed

1/4 cup soda cracker crumbs

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground oregano

1/2 teaspoon ground basil

Coarse salt

Ground pepper

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

pepperoncini peppers (chopped fine) optional

2 tablespoons olive oil

In a small saucepan, bring 3/4 cup water to a boil; add quinoa, cover and reduce heat to low.

Cook until liquid is absorbed, about 12-14 minutes; set aside.







In a food processor, pulse carrot and garlic cloves until finely chopped.

Add cooked quinoa, half the scallions, beans, cracker crumbs,

egg, cumin, oregano and basil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper;

pulse until combined but still slightly chunky. Fold in the feta cheese.

Form mixture into four 3/4-inch-thick patties (dip hands in water to prevent sticking).

If too soft, refrigerate 10 minutes to firm.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium; cook burgers until browned and cooked through,

 8 to 10 minutes per side.

Serve on a bun, pita pocket or just as is along side some steamed veggies - top with cheese sauce or salsa.  Enjoy!

 

My Quinoa Black Bean Burger is served in a Sourdough Maneesh Pocket,

 topped with an Avocado/Yogurt  Dressing.

 

 

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 Mother Nature opens millions of flowers every day without forcing the buds.

 Let this be a reminder not to be forceful with those around you, but to simply give them enough light and love, and an opportunity to grow naturally.
Ultimately, how far you go in life depends on your willingness to be helpful to the young, respectful to the aged, tender with the hurt, supportive of the striving, and tolerant of those who are weaker or stronger than the majority.

 Because we wear many hats throughout the course of our lives, and at some point in your life you will have been all of these people.'