Introduction
Craving a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers? Look no further than this Spinach and Feta Veggie Burger with Lemon Dill Sauce! Packed with flavor and nutrients, this veggie burger is a satisfying and guilt-free meal. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians, flexitarians, or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. The creamy lemon dill sauce elevates the burger to a whole new level, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Main Sections
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients required to make these flavorful spinach and feta veggie burgers:
- For the Veggie Burgers:
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free option available)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Lemon Dill Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger Assembly:
- Burger buns (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- Toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, sprouts, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Spinach and Feta Veggie Burgers:
- Prepare the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or your hands.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spinach, quinoa (or rice), feta cheese, red onion, garlic, egg (or flax egg), and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick.
- Cook the Burgers: You can cook the burgers in a few different ways:
- Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Grill: Grill the patties over medium heat for 4-6 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the burgers are heated through. Be careful as they can be delicate.
- Prepare the Lemon Dill Sauce: While the burgers are cooking, prepare the lemon dill sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt), dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of lemon dill sauce on the top and bottom buns. Add the cooked veggie burger patty, and top with your favorite burger toppings.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan feta and yogurt.
- Add Some Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the burger mixture for a little heat.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using goat cheese or parmesan cheese instead of feta.
- Grain Options: Bulgur or couscous are excellent substitutes for quinoa or rice.
- Freezing Instructions: Cooked veggie burgers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Health Benefits
These Spinach and Feta Veggie Burgers are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants.
- Good Source of Protein: Quinoa and feta cheese provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- High in Fiber: Quinoa and vegetables contribute to a high fiber content, promoting healthy digestion and satiety.
- Lower in Fat and Calories: Compared to beef burgers, these veggie burgers are significantly lower in fat and calories, making them a healthier choice.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Feta Veggie Burger with Lemon Dill Sauce is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that you can easily prepare at home. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy this delicious and nutritious veggie burger!
