Welcome to a Zesty, Chickpea Delight!
Hey there! I’m so excited to share my recipe for Ultimate Lemon Chickpea Patties with Yogurt Sauce. If you’re looking for something fresh, zesty, and protein-packed, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe is not only delicious but makes a perfect snack, appetizer, or light meal. I love how easy it is to whip up these chickpea patties, and you’ll be amazed at the flavor explosion from just a handful of simple ingredients.
The Perks of Chickpea Patties
Not only are these patties delicious, but they’re also packed with amazing nutrition! Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied for longer. Plus, they’re full of vitamins and minerals that are good for your body. When you pair these patties with the creamy yogurt sauce, you’re adding probiotics which are beneficial for your gut health. Who knew that something so tasty could be so good for you too?
Fun Variations to Try
- Add Some Heat: If you like a bit of spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mixture.
- Veggies Galore: Feel free to toss in some grated zucchini or shredded carrots for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead of regular breadcrumbs to keep it gluten-free.
- Herbal Twist: Swap out parsley and dill for other herbs like cilantro or mint to mix up the flavors!
Let’s Dive into the Recipe!
Ingredients List
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
This recipe makes about 3–4 servings of flavorful chickpea patties with yogurt sauce, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chickpeas: In a large bowl, mash the drained and rinsed chickpeas with a fork or a potato masher until mostly smooth but leave some small chunks for added texture. This gives every bite a nice heartiness!
- Combine Ingredients: To the mashed chickpeas, add the breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. If you’re using it, add the egg for binding. Give everything a good mix until it’s combined.
- Form Patties: Roll the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Place them on a platter or plate and admire your handiwork—they’re going to be delicious!
- Chill Patties (Optional): For better cohesion, you can chill the formed patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help prevent them from falling apart while frying.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil. The oil needs to be hot for that perfect crispy exterior.
- Cook Patties: Once the oil is hot, place the patties carefully into the skillet without overcrowding. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. The smell will be amazing!
- Make the Yogurt Sauce: While the patties are cooking, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Mix it well and adjust the seasoning to your liking. This sauce is the perfect cool and creamy complement!
- Serve: Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate. Top each one with a generous dollop of yogurt sauce and sprinkle with extra dill. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish. You’re ready to dig in!
Practical Tips for Success
- If you’d like to make these ahead of time, the patties freeze well! Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container.
- To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
- Leftover yogurt sauce can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days and pairs well with so many dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these patties vegan? Absolutely! Just skip the egg, and they’ll hold together nicely without it.
- How do I know if the patties are cooked properly? They should be golden brown on the outside and hot throughout. Testing with a knife in the center will help you know.
- What can I serve with these patties? They taste great on their own, but you can serve them with a fresh salad, in a pita, or as part of a mezze platter!
- Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! You can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- How long do leftovers last? Well-stored in the fridge, they’ll last about 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container!
Join the Fun on Social Media!
Did you give these Ultimate Lemon Chickpea Patties a try? I’d love to hear all about your culinary adventures! Snap a picture and share it with me on Pinterest. Let’s connect over our love for cooking and enjoy sharing our favorites!
