You’ve tried quinoa in salads. You’ve subbed it for rice in bowls and stir-fries. You’ve even stuffed peppers with quinoa. But have you ever considering combining it with beans to create a hearty, protein-packed, meat-free burger? With spring upon us and summer rapidly approaching, now is the perfect time to experiment with healthy burger options. With these Gluten-Free Quinoa-Bean Burgers, you can enjoy barbecue fare and keep your body bikini-ready.
Gluten-Free Quinoa-Bean Burgers
Serves 4
Ingredients
2 cups red or white quinoa, cooked
1 cup canned red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup smoked gouda or smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup sunflower seeds, roasted and lightly salted
1-½ tsp. chipotle chile powder
¼ tsp. fine sea salt
2 tsp. olive oil
1 large egg, lightly beaten
4 gluten-free hamburger buns, toated
2 cups packed baby spinach or arugula
4 large tomato slices
Directions
- Pulse sunflower seeds in a food processor until finely chopped. Add quinoa, beans, cheese, chipotle chile powder, salt and eggs and process until combined but still chunky. Evenly divide and shape mixture into 4 patties about ¾-inch thick.
- In a large skillet over medium, heat oil and add patties. Cook for 4 minutes; flip and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until crispy.
- Place burgers on buns and top with spinach or arugula and tomatoes.