Veggie Sliders with Pesto Spread

Name: Veggie Sliders with Pesto Spread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup grated zucchini; 1/2 cup grated carrot; 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 4 mini burger buns; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 1 clove garlic; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Recipes

I love making Veggie Sliders with Pesto Spread because they are not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one bite. These sliders are packed with flavor and are a hit at any gathering. Whether I’m serving them at a barbecue or a casual dinner, they always impress my guests. The creamy pesto spread adds a unique twist that elevates the sliders to a whole new level. Plus, they are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for a hassle-free meal.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:57:40.661Z

When I first experimented with making veggie sliders, I wanted to create something that packed a punch in flavor while being nutritious. I combined a variety of veggies with spices, which led me to this delicious recipe. The best part? The homemade pesto spread adds a rich and aromatic element that enhances the overall taste of each slider.

One tip I've learned is to let the vegetable mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the patties. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to bind the ingredients together. The sliders cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden brown finish while maintaining a moist center!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that excite your taste buds
Creamy pesto spread adds a gourmet touch
Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests

Cooking Tips for Perfect Sliders

To ensure the veggie sliders hold their shape while cooking, make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini and carrots. This step prevents the mixture from becoming too wet and helps each slider achieve a firm texture. A clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth works well for this task. If you find the mixture too crumbly even after this step, adding a little more egg or breadcrumbs can help bind it together.

When cooking the sliders, it’s important to preheat your skillet and use medium heat. This allows for a nice golden crust to form on the outside while ensuring the inside cooks through. If your sliders start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Flip the patties gently with a spatula to avoid breaking them. If they do fall apart, don’t worry—just save the bits and serve them atop a salad!

Customizing Your Sliders

Feel free to customize the veggie sliders based on what ingredients you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences. For instance, if you don’t have bell peppers, try using finely chopped mushrooms or sweet potatoes for an earthy flavor. You could even replace quinoa with black beans for a protein boost. If you want a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the slider mixture.

Consider experimenting with different herbs in the pesto spread. While classic basil is a standout, adding fresh spinach, arugula, or even kale can contribute interesting flavors and nutrient density. If you don't have pine nuts, walnuts or sunflower seeds are excellent substitutions that still offer great texture and taste. A touch of lemon juice can brighten the entirety of the dish, enhancing the flavors of both the pesto and the sliders.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Veggie Sliders

Slider Ingredients

1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup grated zucchini
1/2 cup grated carrot
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 mini burger buns

Pesto Spread Ingredients

1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 clove garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt to taste

Instructions for Making Pesto Spread

Instructions

How to Prepare the Veggie Sliders

Make the Pesto Spread

In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding salt to taste. Set aside.

Prepare the Slider Mixture

In a bowl, mix together quinoa, zucchini, carrot, bell pepper, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Form Sliders

Shape the mixture into four equal patties, ensuring they hold together well.

Cook the Sliders

In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread the pesto on the bottom half of each burger bun, place a veggie patty on top, and cover with the top bun. Serve warm.

Enjoy Your Sliders!

Pro Tips

For a healthier option, serve the sliders with whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps instead of regular buns. You can also customize the veggies according to what you have on hand.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These veggie sliders can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping. After forming the patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag where they can be stored for up to three months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.

When you're ready to cook the frozen sliders, there’s no need to thaw them out beforehand. Just cook them on medium heat for an extra 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and heated through. This convenience allows for quick weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings without requiring additional prep time.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders shine on their own, but they can be served with various accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. Pair them with a refreshing coleslaw or a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. As a treat, consider serving them with sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

To elevate the flavor profile further, provide a selection of toppings such as sliced avocados, fresh arugula, or even sautéed mushrooms. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a sweet tang that balances the savory sliders, making them even more irresistible for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the veggie mixture and form the patties a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and cook them when you're ready.

→ Can I freeze the veggie patties?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for about 1 month.

→ What can I serve with the veggie sliders?

These sliders pair well with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.