Guacamole Black Bean Burgers

Let's be real!  Burgers are an American classic.  Firing up that grill and getting some barbeque going always makes for a happy meal.

Since my parents became vegans just about a year ago, meals have been somewhat different since coming home to visit, which means that sometimes... I like to add an element of twist.  What's also great?  They'll be somewhat flexible for me and have some dairy while I'm home - which means I can still bake!!!!

Guacamole is, without a doubt, totally vegan and something almost EVERYBODY loves!  This is an easy way to spice up any burger (black bean, beef, veggie, or even turkey).

Guacamole

4 medium-large avocados
zest of one orange and one lime (optional)
juice of half (or more) an orange
juice of half (or more) a lime
2 tbs chopped cilantro
1 medium tomato finely diced (excess water drained)
salt to season

"Peel" avocados, remove pits, and place into bowl.  Zest your orange and lime, if using zest, BEFORE cutting and juicing.  Add zest to bowl.  Juice the fruit, adding the freshly squeezed liquid into the bowl as well.  You may find that as you mash the avocados, you may want to add more juice.  Toss in your cilantro, tomato, and about a 1/2 tsp salt.  Mash everything together well until a smooth consistency.  Test and add more salt if necessary, or desired.

Other things I like to add to my guacamole sometimes?
diced red pepper
jalapeno
diced green onion
lemon juice/zest (instead of orange or lime)
white pepper
 

Guacamole Black Bean Burgers

black bean burgers (found at local grocery stores)
buns (toasted if desired)
pepper jack cheese
guacamole
fresh lettuce
sliced tomato
sauteed onions (see below)
mayonnaise (you may even want to use the chipotle kind!)

Prepare the black bean burgers as directed.  Whether you're preparing them on the grill or in a skillet on the stove, it's best to top the burgers with the pepper jack after the first flip.  This will give the cheese enough time to melt completely.  Once fully cooked, remove from heat.

Layer the bottom of the bun with mayo and lettuce, topping off with the burger.  Add the tomato atop the burger, followed by the sauteed onions and a healthy serving of guacamole!  Add extra mayo on the top bun if desired.  Serve with chips, oven fries, sweet potato fries, or a nice salad!

Sauteed Onions
1 medium or large onion (sliced into rings)
2 - 3 tbs oil
2 - 3 cloves garlic (minced)
salt

Heat skillet on medium-high heat with oil.  Once ready, toss in onions, season with salt, and stir.  Allow to cook for about 3-4 minutes before adding the garlic.  Stir again and saute until nice and tender.