Description
These Spinach and Lentil Burgers are a nutritious, plant-based meal. They are high in protein and fiber, making them a satisfying alternative to traditional burgers. This recipe is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup cooked lentils, drained and mashed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1 egg (or flaxseed egg for vegan version)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, 1-2 minutes.
- In a bowl, mash the cooked lentils. Add the sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs (or oat flour), egg (or flaxseed egg), cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is moldable. Adjust consistency with water or more breadcrumbs if needed.
- Divide the mixture into 4 or 5 portions and form into evenly sized patties. For firmer patties, chill them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook each spinach lentil burger patty for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve the spinach lentil burgers on buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado, or serve over greens with dressing.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use a flaxseed egg (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water, set aside for 5 minutes).
- For a gluten-free version, use oat flour or certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Consider adding grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients.
- Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes, and add fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.
- For best texture, leave some lentils whole instead of mashing them all.
- Uncooked spinach lentil burger patties can be frozen between layers of parchment paper in a freezer bag. Cook from frozen or thaw first.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: High
- Protein: High
- Cholesterol: N/A