Cumin-Crusted Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Plant-based burgers with warm spices and a fresh avocado salsa for a vibrant, satisfying meal. This vegetarian-inspired vegetarian (vegan, gluten-free) ready in about 23 minutes blends (15 oz), drained and rinsed black beans, cooked quinoa, finely diced onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 290 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.3 (11 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 8 min Serves 4 Vegetarian cuisine 290 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Mash black beans in a bowl until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky.
  2. Step 2: Stir in cooked quinoa, diced onion, cumin, garlic powder, and flour until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Divide mixture into 4 patties, pressing firmly to hold shape.
  4. Step 4: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  5. Step 5: While burgers cook, combine avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro in a small bowl.
  6. Step 6: Serve burgers topped with avocado salsa and a lime wedge on the side.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cumin-Crusted Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 23 minutes (15 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cumin-Crusted Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cumin-Crusted Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cumin-Crusted Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Cumin-Crusted Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Salsa vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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