Southwestern Quinoa Patties

Did you know that Quinoa is considered a superfood? A complete protein, quinoa is a good source of calcium, fiber, and is gluten-free.  It's also very versatile, as it can be eaten cold as a salad (Red Quinoa and Black Bean Salad) or warm in the form of a meatball (Meatless Meatballs).  Southwestern Quinoa Patties remind me of a burrito - flavor packed with the essentials such as black beans, salsa, and cheese.  But they come in a petite-sized patty!  Eat them with your hands or grab a fork, these rounds are both satisfying and pleasing for any palate or dieter.  A definite addition to your quinoa recipe file!

From Cooking Quinoa:

Southwestern Quinoa Patties

2 cups cooked quinoa
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
4 eggs or flax eggs (4 Tbsp ground flax + 3/4 cup water)
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 ounce cheddar cheese or Daiya or GO Veggie, shredded or grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs (try gluten-free crumbs)
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4-1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 Tbsp oil

Extras for serving: avocado, salsa, cheese, yogurt, lettuce, beans, pita, tacos

Start with a medium bowl and add the quinoa, black beans, eggs, salsa, onion, cheese, and garlic.  Stir to combine.
Add in the breadcrumbs, cumin, chili powder, and salt.  Combine mixture and let sit for 10 minutes.
Add oil to a large skillet and set temp to medium-low.  
With your hands, medium spoon, or small-medium sized cookie scoop, form small patties and begin adding to pan.  Cover pan and cook for 10 minutes or until bottoms are brown.
Flip patties, cover, and cook for another 8-10 minutes until brown.

Yields:  15-25 patties (depending on size)

Serve the patties in different ways - as an 3-bite appetizer; light lunch topped with added salsa and avocado along with a fresh salad; patties in a pita with lettuce and tomato with a side of veggies; or as a side with fish, chicken, or preferred protein.

Mixture

Patties ready to flip

Patties ready to serve

Up close and personal

Dinner is served!