Ingredients:

• 2 rounded cups cooked quinoa (see note below for cooking instructions)

• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or other variety, if you prefer)

• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese

• 1 cup shredded zucchini, squeezed dry

• 3 eggs

• 3 tablespoons all purpose flour

• 3 green onions, including white parts

• 1 /2 teaspoon sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/8 teaspoon salt 

• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 2 cups breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning

• 1 clove fresh garlic

• 1 cup parmesan cheese

• Olive oil and salted butter for frying 

Chop green onions finely and combine with all ingredients and seasoning in a bowl. Make palm-sized patties form the mixture. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Fry the patties until brown (about 5 minutes on each side). Serve on a bun with all the standard burger fare!

To cook  quinoa:                                        Heat 1 teaspoon of oil or butter in a pan. Add 1 cup of uncooked Quinoa to the oil to  lightly toast the grains. Add 2 cups of water, ½ teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil. Lower heat to simmer for 15 minutes, covered. Yields 2 cups