Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in. Not only are they crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, but they also pack a punch of flavor. The addition of a garlicky lemon tahini dip elevates them to a whole new level. These patties are not just delicious; they are also gluten-free and vegan, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these lentil patties in no time.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is packed with taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers, snacks, or even as a main dish paired with your favorite sides.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome lentils and fresh herbs, these patties are nutritious and filling.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, freeze them, and have an easy snack ready whenever hunger strikes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Helps blend the ingredients smoothly for the perfect patty texture.
- Frying pan: Ideal for achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows easy mixing of all components without mess.
Ingredients
For the Lentil Patties
These bite-sized lentil patties are crispy on the outside yet soft and flavorful on the inside. Pair them with a side of garlicky lemon tahini dip, and you’ll be licking your fingers clean!
- 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
Add some zest to your patties with this light 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 Lentils
Start by draining your soaked lentils. Combine them in a food processor along with diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, chickpea flour, coriander, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper. Pulse until well mixed but still slightly chunky.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Using your hands, form small patties from the lentil mixture. Aim for about 1-inch diameter rounds. Set aside on a plate while you heat the oil.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add patties to the pan in batches. Fry each side for about 3–4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Tahini Dip
In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and enough water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir in minced parsley and add a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange your crispy lentil patties on a platter alongside the lemon tahini dip. Enjoy as an appetizer or snack!
How to Serve Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, they can be served in many delightful ways.
As Appetizers
- Serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light starter.
In a Wrap
- Wrap the patties in pita bread with fresh veggies and drizzled lemon tahini dip.
- Add some greens for extra crunch and nutrition.
On a Salad
- Place lentil patties atop mixed greens for a hearty salad.
- Drizzle with additional lemon tahini dip for flavor.
In a Grain Bowl
- Combine with quinoa or brown rice, topped with vegetables and tahini sauce.
- Add nuts or seeds for added texture.
How to Perfect Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
To achieve the best results when making these Easy Lentil Patties, consider these helpful tips.
- Use soaked lentils: Soaking the lentils overnight ensures they cook evenly and blend well into the mixture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before frying; adjust salt and spices to suit your preference.
- Monitor frying temperature: Keep the oil hot but not smoking to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
- Chill before frying: Letting the patties sit in the fridge for 15-30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Lentil Patties can elevate your meal experience. Consider these tasty options.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs dressed in lemon juice.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and flavor.
- Hummus Platter: Serve creamy hummus alongside sliced veggies and pita chips for dipping.
- Tabbouleh: This parsley-based salad brings brightness and freshness to your plate.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish with sautéed onions and spices complements the patties well.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a comforting side option that pairs nicely with the flavors of the patties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip), it’s easy to stumble upon some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Incorrect Lentil Preparation: Not soaking lentils overnight can lead to a gritty texture. Always soak your lentils to ensure they cook evenly and become soft.
- Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season the mixture adequately can result in bland patties. Taste the mixture before frying and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many patties at once can lower the oil temperature, making them soggy. Fry in batches for crispy perfection.
- Not Using Enough Oil: Using too little oil can lead to dry patties. Ensure there’s enough oil in the pan for even cooking and crispiness.
- Inadequate Mixing: Not mixing ingredients well can cause uneven flavor distribution. Mix thoroughly to ensure every bite is delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover patties in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Place cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may affect crispiness.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and reheat for about 5 minutes until warm and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s some information that might help you as you prepare your Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip).
Can I make these Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) gluten-free?
Yes! These patties are naturally gluten-free since they are made with lentils and chickpea flour.
How do I serve Easy Lentil Patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with a garlicky lemon tahini dip or a fresh salad for a light meal.
Can I store leftover lemon tahini dip?
Absolutely! The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
What can I substitute for tahini in the dip?
You can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you need a tahini alternative, although it will change the flavor slightly.
Final Thoughts
Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are not just delightful but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or herbs based on your taste preferences. Enjoy these crispy treats as appetizers or snacks, and don’t hesitate to experiment!
Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings (12 patties) 1x
Description
Easy Lentil Patties with Lemon Tahini Dip are a delightful and nutritious option for any meal or snack. These crispy yet tender patties are packed with flavor, thanks to the rich combination of lentils, spices, and fresh herbs. The accompanying garlicky lemon tahini dip adds a zesty twist that elevates each bite. Perfect for parties or simple weeknight dinners, these gluten-free and vegan patties cater to various dietary preferences, making them a versatile choice for everyone. With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can serve up this tasty treat quickly and easily.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry red lentils
- 1 medium white onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Olive oil (for frying)
- ⅓ cup tahini
- Lemon juice
- Minced garlic for the dip
- Sea salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin the dip
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the lentils overnight.
- In a food processor, combine soaked lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, chickpea flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pulse until mixed but slightly chunky.
- Form small patties from the mixture and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- For the dip, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and water to desired consistency. Mix in parsley.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 patties (90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
