bbq bites.

Last weekend, the roommates and I had people over for a bbq in our backyard to enjoy good company and beautiful summer weather. It was a nice way to spend a Saturday night, and we still managed to party just as hard in the comfort of our own home, without breaking the bank at the bar. One of the things I love the most about summer, is the longing that everyone has to be outside. We spend so much time indoors during the winter months, that come summer everyone is antsy to spend as much time outside as possible.

I had been dying to make homemade veggie burgers after watching Guy's Big Bite on the Food Network almost two years ago, and it was the perfect opportunity to finally try them out.

They were delicious, and nutritious, and everyone ate them up even faster than the beef burgers (which always makes me really happy). They could have used a couple more eggs to hold them together better, but for a first time attempt, I can't complain.

Here is the recipe, taken from Guy Fieri, himself:

VEGGIE BURGERS:

Ingredients
2 ounces olive oil
3 tablespoons diced red onion
2 tablespoons diced black olives
2 tablespoons diced red bell peppers
1 teaspoon diced jalapeno
1 1/2 tablespoons diced garlic
1 tablespoon diced artichoke
4 ounces black beans, drained
4 ounces chickpeas, drained
4 ounces white beans, drained
6 ounces rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon Hungarian paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon celery salt
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
2 tablespoons seasoned bread crumbs
1 egg
Directions
In a medium saute pan over medium heat, add 1-ounce olive oil and all raw vegetables except beans. Saute until translucent. Remove and cool.

Add veggies to beans and mix thoroughly. Add all dry ingredients along with the egg. Thoroughly mix all ingredients and form into 4 patties, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

In saute pan add 1-ounce olive oil, and cook patties 2 to 3 minutes per side.