Quinoa Burgers (Vegan)

Friends, it's time to put away the leftover gingerbread and put down that glass of egg-less "nog!" The start of the New Year brings a time of reflection, resolutions, and hope for a healthy 2012. Kick-off the season right with these filling Quinoa Burgers. Packed with protein and scrumptious flavor, traditional "burger" fixings will pair perfectly--tomato, lettuce, and perhaps some homemade guacamole or hummus on the side.

Note: These burgers also make a mix-in when crumbled on top of a hearty salad.

QUINOA BURGERS

(adapted from this recipe at the Savvy Vegetarian)

Ingredients:

Most ingredients are conveniently available at the Co-Op

• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup of your favorite hummus or bean dip (check the refrigerated section at the Co-Op for prepared hummus, as well as the bulk foods aisle for dry mixes)
• 1 TBSP tomato paste
• 2 TBSP ground flax seed
• 1 TBSP low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 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
• Additional whole wheat flour or rolled oats to help bind the mixture together, if needed

Directions:

1) Super easy! Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix n' mash until thoroughly combined. Form into patties using about 1/4 cup of the mixture per patty, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

2) Heat a dash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3 - 5 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned on each side. Serve on a whole wheat bun with burger fixings, or crumbled over a spinach salad.