Weight Watchers Friendly Mini Zucchini Burgers
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: Makes 12 mini burgers
Weight Watchers Points: 3 points per mini burger
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup grated vegan cheese (such as Daiya or Violife)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Prepare Zucchini Mixture:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture. Transfer the squeezed zucchini to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Ingredients:
- To the bowl with zucchini, add breadcrumbs, vegan cheese, onion, garlic, parsley, nutritional yeast (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Form Mini Burgers:
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture and shape it into a small burger patty, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture to make 12 mini burgers.
- Cook Mini Burgers:
- Lightly coat a large non-stick skillet with cooking spray or olive oil and heat over medium heat. Cook the mini burgers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Bake (Optional):
- Alternatively, you can bake the mini burgers for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve the mini zucchini burgers warm with your favorite burger toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, or vegan mayo.
Nutrition Information (per mini burger, estimated):
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 3g
Weight Watchers Points:
- Points: 3 points per mini burger
Tips:
- These mini zucchini burgers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Experiment with different seasonings or add-ins such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms to customize the flavor.
Conclusion:
Enjoy these flavorful and nutritious Mini Zucchini Burgers as a delicious plant-based option for lunch, dinner, or as a party appetizer. They are satisfying, easy to make, and perfect for anyone following a Weight Watchers plan looking to enjoy a tasty and guilt-free meal.