As the world moves towards a more plant-based diet, mini veggie burgers with slider buns have become a popular choice for those seeking a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meat-based sliders. These delightful, bite-sized burgers are not only a hit at family gatherings and dinner parties but also a wonderful option for quick weekday meals. My family, for instance, has embraced these mini veggie burgers with open arms. They love the burst of flavors and textures in each bite, and I appreciate how easy they are to prepare. Whether served as appetizers or a main course, these sliders offer a satisfying experience that delights both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Ingredients
The beauty of mini veggie burgers lies in their versatility and the variety of ingredients that can be used to craft them. For this recipe, you will need the following:
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup of grated carrot
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slider buns
- Your choice of toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
Instructions
Creating these mini veggie burgers is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Follow these steps to bring your veggie sliders to life:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until they are mostly smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture.
- Add the cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, red onion, grated carrot, garlic, parsley, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties, approximately 2 inches in diameter, to fit the size of the slider buns. You should be able to make about 8 patties.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add a little olive oil to the pan and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
- While the patties are cooking, prepare your slider buns and toppings. Toast the buns lightly if desired.
- Assemble the sliders by placing a veggie patty on the bottom half of each bun, then add your choice of toppings and finish with the top half of the bun.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious mini veggie burgers!
Nutrition Facts
Each serving of these mini veggie burgers packs a nutritious punch. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving:
Servings: 8 sliders
Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories
Preparation Time
One of the great advantages of this mini veggie burger recipe is its efficiency in the kitchen. The preparation and cooking time is as follows:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve
These mini veggie burgers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:
- As an appetizer at a party, arranged on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces.
- As a main course alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
- At a picnic or barbecue, with a side of potato chips or coleslaw.
- For a kid-friendly meal, served with sweet potato fries or vegetable sticks.
- As a build-your-own burger station, allowing guests to customize their sliders with a variety of toppings and condiments.
Additional Tips
To make the most out of your mini veggie burger experience, consider these additional tips:
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences. Try adding smoked paprika or fresh cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: The patties can be prepared and shaped in advance, then stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to make a larger batch, the uncooked patties can be frozen on a baking sheet and then transferred to a freezer bag for up to three months. Simply thaw and cook when needed.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Toppings Galore: Encourage creativity by offering a wide array of toppings such as pickles, jalapeños, hummus, or even a slice of cheese to cater to different taste buds.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different type of bean instead of chickpeas?
Absolutely! Black beans or white beans are great alternatives that will still provide a tasty result. - How do I make sure the patties don’t fall apart?
Ensure the mixture is well combined and not too dry. If needed, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to help bind the ingredients together. - What can I use instead of quinoa?
Cooked rice or bulgur wheat are excellent substitutes that will work just as well in this recipe. - Are these sliders suitable for freezing?
Yes, the patties can be frozen before they are cooked. Simply shape them, freeze on a baking sheet, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before cooking. - Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
Certainly! Bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.