Post-Holiday Reset with Spiced Lentil Burger and Grenache 🌱🍷

After a holiday filled with indulgence and feasts, my stomach craves something quick and easy! You know me by now that I can't resist giving things a little twist and elevating the simple dish to a culinary masterpiece 😏

For tonight's dinner, I made a Spicy Lentil Burger, topped with a vibrant Tomato-Turmeric Infused Sauce and a peppery rocket salad. And yes, the burger buns are homemade too! 😋

Of course, it's all paired with a fruit-forward Grenache from Languedoc, because what's a good burger without the perfect glass of wine? 🍷

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (per burger):

• Protein: 12g

• Fiber: 8g

• Iron: 3mg (15% DV)

• Calories: 320

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Healthy Fats: 14g

Nutritional Benefits:

Lentils are packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making this burger not only delicious but also nourishing. A single serving provides 12g of protein, matching the protein content of many meat-based alternatives.

The combination of lentils and whole grain buns delivers 8g of fiber per serving, meeting nearly 30% of your daily needs. Plus, lentils are rich in iron, folate, and potassium, making this a truly nutrient-dense meal that's perfect for those seeking a lighter, plant-powered option while still being filling and satisfying.

Why the Grenache Works:

The Grenache from the Languedoc region is a perfect match for these Spicy Lentil Burgers because of its fruit-forward flavors and smooth tannins, which complement the earthy, savory profile of the lentils. The juicy red fruit notes like strawberry, raspberry, and cherry bring out the richness of the lentil patties, while the subtle spiciness of the wine ties in beautifully with the smoked paprika and cumin in the burger.

Plus, Grenache's light to medium body and low tannins won't overpower the freshness of the avocado and the peppery bite of the rocket salad, allowing the Tomato-Turmeric Infused Sauce to shine without competing with the wine. It's a balance of bold yet harmonious flavors that enhances the whole dish!🥑🍔✨

When serving Grenache, a slight chill (about 15-20 minutes in the fridge) will enhance its fruit-forward nature, making it the perfect companion for your Spicy Lentil Burger.

Spiced Lentil Burgers

This plant-based burger is packed with flavor and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat!

For the Burger Patties:

• 1 3/4 cups cooked green lentils (or 1 can of drained and rinsed lentils)

• 2 Tbsp tomato paste

• 3/4 tsp kosher salt

• 3/4 tsp smoked paprika

• 3/4 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp granulated garlic

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 cup finely grated carrots

• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 2-3 Tbsp oat flour

• 2-3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for cooking)

• 4 buns or wraps

• 1 large ripe avocado, thinly sliced

For the Tomato-Turmeric Infused Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for vegan option)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

For the Burger Patties:

1. Mash 1 1/4 cups of lentils, tomato paste, and spices (smoked paprika through black pepper) in a large bowl until smooth. (A potato masher or food processor works wonders!)

2. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup lentils, grated carrots, parsley, and 2 Tbsp oat flour. Mash again until the mixture holds together. If needed, add a little more oat flour to help it bind.

3. Form the mixture into 4 patties, about 3/4" thick.

4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties until they're deeply browned and crispy on both sides—about 3 minutes per side.

5. Serve on toasted buns with sliced avocado, rocket leaves, and the Tomato-Turmeric Sauce.

For the Tomato-Turmeric Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients and whisk until smooth.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Assembly:

1. Toast your burger buns until golden.

2. Spread a generous layer of Tomato-Turmeric Sauce on both bun halves.

3. Place the lentil patty on the bottom bun.

4. Add sliced avocado.

5. Finish with rocket/arugula leaves and the top bun.

Pro Tips:

• The shaped patties will hold together better if you let them rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before cooking.

• For meal prep, the uncooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply separate them with parchment paper and store in an airtight container.

• The Tomato-Turmeric Sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Customization Ideas:

• Feeling adventurous? Add a dollop of spicy yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor.

• For a smokier twist, try adding a bit of chipotle powder to the patty mix!

Let me know if you try it, and tag me—I'd love to see your twist on it! 😄

Bon appétit, Darlings!🍷