There’s something truly delightful about this Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe that has made it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. These patties strike the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, combining the earthiness of spiced chickpeas with the bright, creamy tang of a lemon garlic aioli that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, looking for a quick vegetarian meal, or wanting to impress friends with minimal effort, this recipe hits all the marks with satisfying taste and simple prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients ready for this recipe is a breeze and each one plays a special role in creating the irresistible flavor, texture, and color that make these patties shine. From the wholesome chickpeas to the vibrant spices and tangy lemon aioli, everything is both essential and easy to find.
- Chickpeas (1 can, 15 oz): The star ingredient, providing a creamy, protein-packed base for the patties.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Helps bind the mixture and adds a subtle crunch for great texture.
- White onion (½, diced): Adds a fresh, mild sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings warm, earthy notes that deepen the flavor profile.
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Offers a beautiful golden hue and subtle peppery flavor.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a savory garlic essence without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the onion flavor beneath the surface.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons for cooking): For pan frying, gives a crispy outside and rich finish.
- Egg (1): Acts as a natural binder to keep the patties intact while cooking.
- Greek yogurt (1 cup): Base for the lemon garlic aioli, adding creaminess and tang.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Elevates the aioli with fruity richness.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Provides zesty brightness that wakes up the aioli.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle hint of warmth and bite.
How to Make Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Make the Lemon Garlic Aioli
Start by preparing the luscious lemon garlic aioli, which is what truly takes these patties to the next level. Whisk together Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Pop it into the fridge while you work on the patties so the flavors can mingle and develop.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
Drain and rinse your chickpeas well to get rid of excess liquid. Then, mash them using a potato masher or a food processor until they’re mostly broken down but still have a bit of chunkiness. This texture is key to a satisfying bite. Transfer this to a large mixing bowl to begin building your patty base.
Step 3: Add the Flavorings
Next, toss in the breadcrumbs, diced white onion, cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, and egg. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices are evenly spread and the egg binds the mix together. If the mixture feels too loose, add a little extra breadcrumbs. Your goal is a consistency that sticks when pressed but isn’t dry.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Use your hands to form the mixture into patties about 2 to 3 inches wide. Depending on size, you should get around 6 to 8 patties. Don’t worry about them being perfectly uniform—homemade charm counts here!
Step 5: Cook the Patties
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the patties and cook each side for about 5 minutes until a gorgeous golden brown crust forms. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Add more oil if it begins to dry out.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the beautiful cooked patties to plates and serve warm with a generous dollop of the chilled lemon garlic aioli on top or on the side. This pairing is pure magic and elevates every bite!
How to Serve Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro are perfect finishing touches that bring a pop of color and brightness to the plate. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few thin lemon slices can also add visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
These patties work wonderfully alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with couscous or quinoa tossed with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a couple of patties in pita pockets with lettuce, tomato, and extra lemon garlic aioli for a delicious sandwich. Or turn them into sliders for an impressive appetizer. You could also crumble them over grains or salad for a fun, protein-packed topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any patties left after your meal, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the aioli separate to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
These chickpea patties freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of olive oil, or warm them in the oven until crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that wonderful crust.
FAQs
Can I make these patties vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute, and swap out the Greek yogurt in the aioli for a plant-based alternative to keep everything vegan-friendly.
What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Ground oats or crushed crackers work as excellent alternatives to breadcrumbs and will still help bind the patties nicely.
Is there a way to make these patties gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to keep the patties gluten-free without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Definitely! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp.
How long does the lemon garlic aioli keep?
The aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving if it separates a bit.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with vibrant, homey flavors, this Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe is a must-try. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and fits into just about any meal scenario. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to staple you love to share with family and friends.
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Easy Chickpea Patties with Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 patties (serves 4)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Chickpea Patties are a flavorful and protein-packed vegetarian dish that combines mashed chickpeas with aromatic spices and fresh onion, pan-fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy lemon garlic aioli, they make a versatile meal perfect as a snack, sandwich filling, or a main course accompanied by salad.
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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan frying)
- 1 egg
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, whisk together Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Refrigerate the aioli to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the patties.
- Prepare the Chickpea Mixture: Drain and rinse chickpeas thoroughly. Mash them using a potato masher or briefly pulse in a food processor until mostly broken down but still slightly chunky for texture. Transfer to a large bowl.
- Add the Flavorings: To the mashed chickpeas, add breadcrumbs, diced white onion, cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, and the egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs as needed.
- Shape the Patties: Using clean hands, form the mixture into patties about 2 to 3 inches wide. This should yield around 6 to 8 patties depending on the size.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, place the patties carefully in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp outside. Cook in batches if necessary, adding more oil if needed.
- Serve: Transfer cooked patties to plates and serve warm with a generous dollop of lemon garlic aioli on top or on the side. They pair well with salad, in sandwiches, or simply on their own.
Notes
- Ensure the chickpea mixture is not too wet by adjusting breadcrumbs for better shaping.
- You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg for a vegan option but keep in mind texture may vary.
- These patties can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the chickpea mixture.
