Planning a party? These Quinoa and Black Bean Sliders are the perfect healthy buffet party snacks, offering a delicious and satisfying bite for all your guests. They’re easy to make and a fantastic way to impress with minimal fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Quinoa: Use leftover cooked quinoa or prepare fresh.
- Black Beans: Canned are fine, just rinse them well.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular work. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour.
- Flax Egg: A great vegan binder; combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes. You can also use one regular egg.
- Spices: Adjust to your taste!
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley)
- 1 tablespoon flax egg (or 1 regular egg)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Slider buns or lettuce cups for serving
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Tomato slices
- Red onion rings
- Lettuce leaves
- Your favorite sauce (e.g., vegan mayo, sriracha aioli)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 sliders
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, fork or potato masher, skillet or baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Bean Mixture
In a large bowl, mash the rinsed black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky. This creates a good base for your healthy buffet party snacks.
2. Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, cilantro, flax egg, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed black beans. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
3. Form the Slider Patties
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into small, round patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on a plate as you form them.
4. Cook the Sliders
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the slider patties in the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through. You can also bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Assemble and Serve
Serve the warm quinoa and black bean sliders on mini slider buns or lettuce cups. Add your favorite optional toppings like avocado, tomato, or a tasty sauce. These healthy buffet party snacks are best enjoyed fresh!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded vegan cheese or regular cheese for a gooey center.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or oregano.
- Sweet Potato Boost: Add 1/4 cup of mashed cooked sweet potato for extra flavor and moisture.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover cooked quinoa and black bean patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or in a microwave until warmed through. They make excellent healthy buffet party snacks for later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour in place of regular breadcrumbs.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Form and cook the patties just before serving.
What can I use instead of flax egg?
You can use one regular egg as a binder if you prefer.
Are these suitable for freezing?
You can freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What kind of sauces go well with these sliders?
Vegan mayo, sriracha aioli, guacamole, or a simple salsa are all excellent choices for these healthy buffet party snacks.