I get so excited when one of my vegetarian meals turns out well. I am still learning to cook that way and many times my vegetarian meals DO NOT TURN OUT!

A serving (1/3 cup of cooked beans) contains around 80 calories, no cholesterol, lots of complex carbohydrates and little fat. Additonally, beans are a good source of B vitamins, potassium and fiber, which promotes digestive health, relieves constipation and may even help prevent colon cancer and reduce blood cholesterol (a leading cause of heart disease). My favorite part? Beans are cheap!

Note: I use dried beans whenever possible. It really does make a HUGE difference in how fresh things taste. To learn how to prep the dried beans in the slow cooker to use for this recipe, click here.

Bean Patties

1/2 lb black beans

1/2 lb lentils (you can substitute refried beans)

1/2 cup salsa

1/3 to 1/2 cup of flour (as much as you need to bind everything together but not make it too dry)

2 tsp cumin

Salt and pepper

Mix well and form into patties; pat flour around the outside of the patty.

Heat sunflower or corn or safflower oil over the heat to crisp up the patties.

Serve on a toasted bun with a flavored mayo. You can add some Franks Hot Sauce to give it a kick or roast up some green onions to blend in the mayo. But since the patties have a mild flavor (yes even with the salsa!) you need a bit of a kick!