Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are a delicious and healthy snack option that will impress your guests at any gathering. Perfect for appetizers or light meals, these patties are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic choice for everyone, especially those following a vegan or gluten-free diet. The crispy exterior paired with the creamy lemon tahini dip creates a delightful experience for your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: These lentil patties require minimal effort and can be whipped up in just 40 minutes.
- Flavor Packed: Infused with garlic, herbs, and spices, each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or alongside a salad for a complete meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Made from wholesome ingredients like lentils and tahini, they offer great health benefits.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These patties store well in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Helps blend the lentils and other ingredients into a smooth mixture for easy shaping.
- Frying pan: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on the outside of the patties.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent flavor in every batch.
Ingredients
For the Lentil Patties
- 2 cups dry red lentils, rinsed & soaked overnight
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon chickpea flour
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Sea salt & pepper to taste
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For the Lemon Tahini Dip
- ⅓ cup runny tahini
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- Sea salt to taste
- Water to thin
- Fresh parsley, minced
- Squeeze of lemon
How to Make Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Mixture
- Drain and rinse the soaked lentils.
- In a food processor, combine lentils, onion, garlic, tomato paste, chickpea flour, coriander, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth but slightly chunky.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
- Use your hands to form small patties from the lentil mixture. Aim for about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Place shaped patties on a plate as you go.
Step 3: Fry the Patties
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Once hot, add patties in batches without overcrowding.
- Fry each side for about 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Tahini Dip
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and enough water to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
Serve these crispy Easy Lentil Patties warm with your zesty Lemon Tahini Dip on the side! Enjoy licking your fingers clean!
How to Serve Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Pairing them with the creamy Lemon Tahini Dip elevates their flavor, making them an excellent choice for appetizers or snacks.
As a Snack
- Enjoy these lentil patties as a quick snack. They are nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any time hunger strikes.
In a Wrap
- Place the patties in a whole grain wrap with fresh veggies and drizzle some Lemon Tahini Dip for a wholesome lunch option.
On a Salad
- Top your favorite salad with crumbled lentil patties for added protein and texture. The lemon tahini dip can act as a delicious dressing.
With Dipping Sauces
- Serve the lentil patties alongside various dips like hummus, tzatziki, or even spicy salsa for a fun appetizer platter.
As Party Appetizers
- These patties make great finger food at gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving and enjoyment.
How to Perfect Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
To achieve the best results when making these lentil patties, consider these helpful tips.
- Soak the lentils: Ensure you soak the dry red lentils overnight. This softens them and enhances their flavor.
- Avoid over-mixing: When combining ingredients, mix just enough to blend. Over-mixing can make the patties dense.
- Test the mixture: Before frying all patties, cook one to test the seasoning. Adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Use medium heat: Fry on medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning on the outside.
- Let them rest: After frying, let the patties sit on paper towels briefly. This helps absorb excess oil and keeps them crispy.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust herbs and spices based on your taste preferences for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
Serving your Easy Lentil Patties with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the lentil patties.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and flavor to your plate while being healthy and colorful.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base for serving lentil patties.
- Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing parsley-based salad offers bright flavors that pair wonderfully with lentils.
- Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus flavors alongside pita bread creates a deliciously diverse spread.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an attractive and hearty side dish that complements the patties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes when making Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some common pitfalls.
- Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking lentils overnight can lead to a mushy texture. Always soak them to achieve the right consistency.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many patties at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy patties. Fry in batches for optimal crispness.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Underseasoning can make your patties bland. Taste your mixture before cooking and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale spices or old garlic can dull flavors. Use fresh ingredients for the best results.
- Omitting the Dip: Skipping the lemon tahini dip can result in missing out on flavor! Always serve with the dip for a complete dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow patties to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Freeze patties in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a container.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 30-second intervals until warm, but be aware that this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip).
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can substitute green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils provide the best texture for these patties.
What can I serve with Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)?
These patties pair well with salads, pita bread, or vegetables. You can also serve them as part of a mezze platter.
Are these patties gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe uses chickpea flour and is naturally gluten-free.
How do I customize my Easy Lentil Patties?
You can add vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini, or switch up spices based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect appetizer or snack that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or herbs!
Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Easy Lentil Patties with Lemon Tahini Dip are a delightful and nutritious snack that combines flavor and health effortlessly. These crispy patties, made from wholesome lentils and aromatic spices, are complemented by a zesty lemon tahini dip that elevates their taste profile. Perfect for gatherings, as appetizers, or even light meals, they cater to vegan and gluten-free diets while being packed with protein and fiber. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up these delicious bites that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry red lentils
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon chickpea flour
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Sea salt & pepper to taste
- 4–5 tablespoons olive oil for frying
- ⅓ cup runny tahini
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1–2 cloves garlic
- Sea salt to taste
- Water to thin
- Fresh parsley, minced
- Squeeze of lemon
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the lentils overnight. Drain.
- In a food processor, blend lentils, onion, garlic, tomato paste, chickpea flour, seasonings until slightly chunky.
- Form small patties (1–2 inches) with your hands.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat; fry patties for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- For the dip, mix tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and water to desired consistency; stir in parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
