Spinach and Lentil Burgers Recipe

Introduction

Spinach and lentil burgers offer a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional meat patties. Packed with wholesome ingredients and simple spices, these burgers are perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Step 2: Add the egg to the mixture and stir until fully combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds together.
3. Step 3: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Step 4: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
5. Step 5: Serve the burgers on buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a dollop of yogurt.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
• Try adding finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots to boost flavor and texture.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Serve with a spicy mayo or your favorite sauce to add extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze uncooked patties for up to 1 month; thaw before cooking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of cooked dried lentils?

Yes, canned lentils work well and save time. Just drain and rinse them well before using in the recipe.

How can I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to add enough breadcrumbs to bind the mixture, and press the patties firmly when shaping. Also, cooking over medium heat helps them hold together better.

Spinach and Lentil Burgers Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 67 reviews

These Spinach and Lentil Burgers are a delicious and healthy plant-based alternative to traditional burgers. Packed with protein-rich lentils and nutrient-dense spinach, they offer a flavorful, wholesome meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of spices and optional Parmesan cheese adds depth, while cooking them in a skillet ensures a crispy golden exterior.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 burgers 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Add Egg and Adjust Mixture: Add the egg to the mixture and stir until fully combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds together well for shaping.
3. Shape Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, ensuring they are compact and even thickness for uniform cooking.
4. Heat Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
5. Cook Patties: Add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are heated through.
6. Serve: Serve the burgers on buns with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a dollop of yogurt for a flavorful and healthy meal.

Notes

• Use green or brown lentils as they hold shape better than red lentils for burgers.
• If you want a vegan version, consider replacing the egg with a flax egg or chia egg.
• Breadcrumbs help bind the patties; adjust quantity based on moisture content.
• To add extra flavor, toast breadcrumbs lightly before mixing.
• Serve with fresh buns or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Keywords: spinach lentil burgers, vegetarian burger recipe, healthy plant-based burger, lentil patties, skillet burgers