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A close-up macro shot focusing on the rustic, seared texture of a homemade spinach lentil burger patty on a dark slate plate.

Hearty Spinach Lentil Burgers with a Golden Crust

Discover the best Spinach Lentil Burgers recipe! These hearty, rustic patties are packed with texture, seared to a perfect golden-brown, and guaranteed not to fall apart. A healthy, delicious, and easy vegetarian meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 burgers
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups cooked brown lentils (285g)
  • 5 ounces fresh baby spinach (140g)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup plain breadcrumbs (60g)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml), divided
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (120g)
  • 1 tbsp freshly chopped dill
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (15ml)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced small

Equipment

  • 1 Food Processor
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 2 Mixing bowls

Method
 

Prepare the Base Mixture
  1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Wilt the fresh spinach in a dry pan or in the microwave. Transfer the wilted spinach to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove all excess liquid. Roughly chop the spinach.
Combine and Form the Patties
  1. In a food processor, pulse the cooked lentils 4-5 times to break them down slightly, leaving texture. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooled onion mixture, chopped spinach, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined.
  2. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, divide the mixture into six equal portions and form into thick patties.
Sear the Burgers
  1. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet and sear for 4-6 minutes on the first side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the second side until firm.
Prepare the Dip
  1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and season with a pinch of salt. Serve with the burgers.

Notes

Don't Skip the Chill: Chilling the mixture is the number one tip for preventing the patties from falling apart.
Texture is Key: When pulsing the lentils, aim for a coarse, varied texture. Do not over-blend into a puree.
Medium-High Heat is Your Friend: Ensure the skillet is properly preheated to get an instant sear and create the best crust.
Handle with Care: Use a wide, firm spatula to give you the support you need for a clean flip.