If you want protein in your diet without animal products, beans are one great way to go. You can whip up these tasty, simple patties in a food processor in next to no time: onion, carrot, and fresh parsley add flavor and texture, while beans and breadcrumbs give complete protein.

Everybody loves these tasty, crisp little patties. You can serve them plain or with salsa, and they make nice party bring-alongs: prepare to be asked for the recipe.

INGREDIENTS

One 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 large potato, diced and cooked in boiling water until tender, then drained
1/4 cup grated onion
1/4 cup grated carrot
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves
salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste
1 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup olive oil

1. Put beans, potato, onion, carrots, parsley, salt and pepper in a food processor and pulse until well blended. Divide the mixture into 4 portions and shape into 4 patties. Coat each patty evenly with breadcrumbs and set on a baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Cook patties until golden brown, about 5 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels and serve with salsa on the side, if desired.

Serves 4.