Vegetables are packed with nutritious value. Sometimes when it comes to eating them, it’s easier said than done. One way to get plenty of vegetables in is with a recipe Lori Bumbaco, Oncology Dietitian at NorthShore’s Kellogg Cancer Center, has in store for us!

Blending vegetables or beans into traditional meat-based recipes offers a nutrition upgrade in numerous ways – such as added fiber, vitamins and minerals. In this specific recipe, you get the added benefits of cancer-fighting beta glucans in each savory bite. These veggie-packed sliders offer simultaneous benefits by reducing calories, saturated fats and sodium with a mouthful of flavor.

Recipe makes 12 servings (serving size 1oz patties)
Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 lb ground turkey breast
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 small onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1 medium tomato, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• Hamburger buns

*Other toppings of your choice: grilled pineapple, pickles, ketchup, Swiss cheese and grilled onion.

Directions:
1. Place the mushrooms in a food processor fitted with a metal blade. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. In a large bowl combine mushrooms, turkey, seasoning, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs and egg; mix all ingredients until incorporated.
3. Form into 12 patties – about 1/3 lb – and cook on the stove-top until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
4. Place patty on warmed bun and top with sliced avocado, spinach, tomato and red onion.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 185
Total Fat: 8 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg
Sodium: 190 mg
Total Carbohydrate: 18.5 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 3 g
Protein: 11 g

Recipe adapted from Mushroom Council.