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Chef Wendell: Grilled nut burgers with avocado

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – It’s summertime and that means grilling season. However, in a Hoosier state of die-hard meat eaters, it may be hard to admit that your favorite foods might be the cause of your health and obesity problems. There’s no substitution for a classic grilled hamburger, but change can be a good thing.

Here’s a delicious and nutritious alternative.Grilled Nut Burgers with avocado                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Recipe adapted from: Allrecipes.com

1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts

1/2 cup unsalted sunflower seeds

1 cup cooked chickpeas

1/2 cup diced onion

1 beaten egg

1 tbsp. chopped parsley

1/4 tsp. black pepper

Himalayan salt to taste

2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil

2 slices of low-fat cheddar cheese

2 whole grain burger buns

Sliced summer tomatoes from the garden

Slices of Bermuda or white onion

2 leaves of dark green romaine lettuce (Washed and pat dry)

1/2 peeled fresh avocado

  • Don’t toast the nuts because heat kills the vitamins and Omega 3 they possess.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, mash garbanzos with a fork, or pulse in a food processor.
  • Add the egg, onion, parsley and nuts. Season with salt and pepper and mix well.
  • Form patties and heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Divide the bean / nut mix into two patties and fry in oil for about 3 minutes a side or until well browned and heated through.
  • Place a slice of cheese over each patty and remove from heat.
  • Place patty on a bun and top with sliced tomato, avocado slices and onion lettuce

Serving suggestion:

  • Baked sweet potato fries and sweet and sour cole slaw