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Southwestern Bean Patties

When I first served this recipe, the Southwest flavor and guacamole topping received especially high marks. It was a real hit with everyone!

—DEBBY CHIORINO PT. HUENEME, CA

START TO FINISH: 30 MIN. MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

1 small onion, chopped

1/4 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper

5 teaspoons canola oil, divided

1 garlic clove, minced

1 can (16 ounces) fat-free refried beans

3/4 cup dry bread crumbs

1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies, drained

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1/3 cup cornmeal

6 hamburger buns, split

1/2 cup guacamole

1/2 cup salsa

1. In a large nonstick skillet, saute onion and red pepper in 1 1/2 teaspoons of oil until tender. Add the garlic; cook 1 minute longer.

2. In a large bowl, combine the refried beans, bread crumbs, chilies, cilantro, cumin, pepper and onion mixture; mix well. Shape into six patties; coat in cornmeal.

3. In the same skillet, cook patties in batches in remaining oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side or until lightly browned.

4. Place patties on bun bottoms (save bun tops for another use). Top each with 4 teaspoons of guacamole and 4 teaspoons of salsa.

PER SERVING 312 cal., 9 g fat (1 g sat. fat), 0 chol., 801 mg sodium, 46 g carb., 8 g fiber, 11 g pro. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.