Roasted Zucchini Burger with Garlic Feta
Description
A delicious and healthy vegetarian burger made with roasted zucchini, chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, served on a toasted bun with a creamy garlic feta spread. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for vegetarians and burger lovers alike.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Patty (Makes 4 burgers):
2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and mashed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or whole wheat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for flavor)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
For the Garlic Feta Spread:
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste
Burger Assembly:
4 burger buns (whole wheat or brioche)
Lettuce or arugula
Tomato slices
Red onion rings
Optional: Pickles, cucumbers, olives
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel.
Squeeze out as much water as possible (zucchini holds a lot of water).
Step 2: Make the Patty Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, mashed chickpeas, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and egg.
Mix until well combined. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
Shape into 4 patties.
Step 3: Roast the Patties
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it.
Place patties on the sheet and brush with a little olive oil.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and firm.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Feta Spread
In a bowl, combine feta, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Mix until smooth (use a fork or food processor for creamier texture).
Step 5: Assemble the Burger
Toast burger buns lightly.
Spread garlic feta on both sides of the bun.
Place the roasted zucchini patty on the bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, onion, and other toppings as desired.
Time Estimate
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Burger with bun & spread)
Calories: 350–400 kcal
Protein: 13g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 550mg (can vary depending on feta & buns)
(Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and a vegan feta or hummus instead of the garlic feta spread.
Q: Can I fry the patties instead of roasting?
A: Absolutely. Pan-fry over medium heat in olive oil for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Q: Can I freeze the patties?
A: Yes. Freeze uncooked patties between parchment paper layers in an airtight container. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Serve with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or roasted veggies.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free bread
crumbs and buns to make it fully gluten-free.