Quinoa Burger

(from Eatingwelllivingthin.wordpress.com)

2 rounded cups cooked quinoa (see note at bottom for cooking instructions)

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or other variety, if you prefer)

1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese

1 medium carrot, finely grated (OR 1 cup shredded zucchini, squeezed)

3 eggs

3 tablespoons all purpose flour

2 green onions, including white parts, chopped

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

(optional spices: chili powder, mustard, cilantro, other...)

Olive oil for frying (I used cooking spray instead)

In a large bowl combine the cooked quinoa, cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, carrot, eggs, flour, green onions, pepper, cumin, salt, and garlic powder (other optional spices).

Heat a frying pan and a couple teaspoons olive oil over medium-low heat. [I used cooking spray instead.] 

Mixture will be slightly sticky, so using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop mixture into pan and lightly flatten to 1/2 inch thick.  

Fry until golden-brown, about 4 minutes on each side. [I sprayed the patties with cooking spray just before flipping them to help them fry and not stick.]  

Makes approx. 10 burgers.

To cook quinoa:

1 cup uncooked quinoa

2 cups water (I used 14oz chicken broth topped off with water)

1/2 teaspoon salt

In a medium saucepan bring the 2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil over high heat.  Add quinoa and reduce heat to low.  Cover and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until all water is absorbed and the seeds are tender.  Allow to cool for a few minutes.