If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying vegetarian dish, look no further than this Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of hearty chickpeas, fragrant spices, and a zesty, creamy aioli that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re a longtime fan of plant-based meals or just dipping your toes into meatless cooking, these patties deliver on taste and texture in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. They’re easy to whip up, versatile enough for many occasions, and pack a punch of bright, fresh flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making these patties sing. Each one plays a vital role: from the creamy chickpeas providing the base, to the warming spices adding depth, and the aioli bringing a citrusy, garlicky finish that complements perfectly. Let’s break down these simple but essential components.
- Chickpeas (15 oz can): The star of the show, these provide a wonderful creamy texture and subtle nuttiness.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): They help bind the mixture and ensure the patties hold their shape while adding a slight crunch.
- White onion (½, diced): Adds a sweet, savory edge with a bit of texture in each bite.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, earthy undertone that makes the patties irresistibly aromatic.
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon): A dash of vibrant color and subtle warmth to brighten the patties.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon in patties + 1 teaspoon in aioli): Infuses a gentle garlic essence without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Reinforces the savory profile and deepens the flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons for frying + 2 tablespoons in aioli): For a crisp sear outside and silky richness inside the aioli.
- Egg (1): Acts as a binder to keep patties sturdy but tender.
- Greek yogurt (1 cup): Creates a creamy, tangy base for the aioli that complements the patties perfectly.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh zing that elevates the dish and balances richness.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Make the Lemon Garlic Aioli
Start by mixing the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk it well until smooth and creamy. Pop this chilled tangy aioli in the fridge to let the flavors marry while you prepare the patties. This step ensures every bite will have that irresistibly bright and luscious sauce ready to complement your chickpea patties.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
Drain and rinse your canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess salt and liquid. Using a potato masher or a quick pulse in the food processor, mash the chickpeas until they are mostly smooth but still keep some texture for a satisfying bite. Transfer this mashed goodness to a large mixing bowl. The imperfect texture keeps each patty interesting and hearty.
Step 3: Add the Flavorings
To your mashed chickpeas, add the diced onion, cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, breadcrumbs, and the egg. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined. You want the mixture to hold together when pressed — if it feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs to firm it up. This careful balance is the key to patties that crisp nicely on the outside but stay tender inside.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
With clean hands, form the mixture into evenly sized patties about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Depending on how large you make them, expect to get around 6 to 8 patties in total. Uniform size helps them cook evenly and look beautiful on the plate. This part is fun, so get your hands in there and enjoy the process!
Step 5: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once shimmering hot, carefully place the patties into the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 5 minutes on each side until each patty is beautifully golden brown and crisp outside while remaining soft and flavorful inside. If you’re cooking in batches, keep warm in a low oven and add oil as needed. The aroma as they cook will have you eager to dig in.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your lovely chickpea patties to plates and top or serve alongside a generous dollop of that luscious lemon garlic aioli you prepared earlier. The creamy, zesty sauce is the perfect foil to the earthy, spiced patties, making every mouthful a little celebration.
How to Serve Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness. You can also add a few slices of pickled red onion or a dash of flaky sea salt to elevate the flavors even further. These small touches take the dish from simply delicious to restaurant-quality in your own kitchen.
Side Dishes
These patties are versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide range of sides. Think crisp green salads tossed in lemon vinaigrette, warm pita bread for making sandwiches, or even a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fragrant rice pilaf. Each option invites a new way to enjoy the Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe, making it an all-around crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the patties stacked in slider buns with crunchy lettuce and tomato for an irresistible vegetarian burger. Alternatively, crumble some patties over a grain bowl with roasted veggies and a drizzle of the lemon garlic aioli for a fresh, nourishing bowl meal. No matter how you plate it, this recipe shines with its bright flavors and inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover chickpea patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon garlic aioli separate in a small jar to maintain its creamy texture and fresh taste. When ready to eat, simply bring the patties back to life with a quick reheat or enjoy them cold in wraps or salads.
Freezing
If you want to save patties for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll always have a delicious homemade protein option ready to go for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, place the patties on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior without drying them out. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil if you prefer, bringing that lovely pan-fried texture back perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make these patties vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or another plant-based binder, and substitute the Greek yogurt in the aioli with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. The patties will still hold together well and taste amazing.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, rolled oats finely ground, or even almond meal as a substitute. Each will slightly change the texture but will still help bind the patties beautifully.
How long do these patties stay good in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the chickpea patties will stay fresh for about 3 days. The lemon garlic aioli also keeps well for the same time frame when refrigerated separately.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a great option for a lighter version. Place patties on a lined baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and crisp.
What is the best way to reheat without drying them out?
Reheating in a skillet with a touch of olive oil or in a moderate oven works best to keep the patties moist inside with a crisp outside. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s quick to make, loaded with flavor, and so versatile that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, a main dish, or jazz it up for guests, it’s always a winner. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how delightful plant-based meals can be!
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Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 patties (4 servings)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make chickpea patties flavored with cumin, turmeric, and garlic, pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a tangy lemon garlic aioli. Perfect as a vegetarian main or snack, these patties are packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Chickpea Patties
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ white onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan frying)
For the Lemon Garlic Aioli
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Lemon Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended, then refrigerate the aioli while you prepare the patties to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Chickpea Mixture: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Using a potato masher or a food processor, mash the chickpeas until mostly broken down but still a bit chunky for texture. Transfer the mashed chickpeas to a large bowl.
- Add the Flavorings: To the bowl with the mashed chickpeas, add the breadcrumbs, diced white onion, cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, and the egg. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together if pressed – if it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
- Shape the Patties: With clean hands, shape the mixture into patties about 2-3 inches wide. You should get around 6-8 patties, depending on the size.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, carefully add the patties to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until the patties are golden brown and crisp on the outside. Cook in batches if necessary, adding more oil if needed.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked patties to plates and serve warm with a generous dollop of lemon garlic aioli on top or on the side. Enjoy with salad, in a sandwich, or as is!
Notes
- Make sure not to over-process chickpeas if using a food processor; keep some texture for better patties.
- If mixture is too wet to form patties, add extra breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time.
- You can substitute the egg with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- For crispier patties, cook in a non-stick skillet and avoid overcrowding to maintain heat.
- Leftover patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet.
