Black Bean Burgers

For some reason, for the past few days, I have associated being back in Kingston with the end of summer. I just automatically assumed that as soon as I returned, the weather would get colder and the leaves would turn and it would just immediately become Fall. I never thought for a second, that I'd find myself on a beautiful sandy beach, melting in the heat and needing to go for a swim just to avoid heat stroke!

Today turned into one of the most beautiful and sweltering days I've had in a while, and I went with some friends over the Sandbanks beach in Prince Edward County. It was BEAUTIFUL! I didn't think Kingston (or Ontario, for that matter) had beaches this amazing! The sand was so soft, and the water was warm and clear! It still doesn't beat swimming in the ocean, but for a lake, it was pretty great.

Last year, it seemed like everyone was posting about black bean burgers and they were all the rage! Maybe, I'm a little late to the party, but I figured I'd take a stab at them anyway. In my family, Saturday night is burger night. We ALWAYS have burgers on Saturday night, to the point where it is semi-sacrilegious to even SUGGEST an alternative dinner option.

Needless to say, I am skeptical about any burger that isn't made out of beef...

While the burgers turned out pretty well, they are definitely not a substitute for actual burgers in my books (I sometimes feel like I'm more carnivore, than omnivore...oops!). These would be an excellent alternative to burgers if you were feeding a vegetarian guest! I feel like they might be more tasty than a tofu burger ;)

Black Bean Burgers
Prep Time: 10mins    Cook Time: 5mins     Yields 4 burger patties     (WW: 6pts/burger)

Ingredients:
1 (15oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 Tbsps fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 egg
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/8 tsp salt
2 tsps canola oil
lettuce (optional)
salsa (optional)

Directions:
1) In a large bowl, lightly mash the black beans. Stir in breadcrumbs, cilantro, green onions, garlic, egg, chili powder, cumin, and salt until completely combined.
2) Divide the bean mixture into 4 equal parts and form into a hamburger patty shape, about 1/2-inch thick.
3) Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet. Add the patties to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until patties are browned.
4) Place patties on buns, and top with lettuce, salsa, or whatever toppings you desire. Serve immediately.

(Recipe adapted from WeightWatchers Magazine March 25, 2011)