Baked Veggie Chickpea Patties
Highlighted under: Soft Cooking
I absolutely love making these Baked Veggie Chickpea Patties for a healthy snack or a light meal. The combination of chickpeas and fresh vegetables creates a delightful texture that's both satisfying and nutritious. We often serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce or a zesty salsa for added flavor. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a batch that’s perfect for gathering friends or enjoying an easy weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try them, they will quickly become a go-to favorite in your household!
Making Baked Veggie Chickpea Patties has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeks when I crave something wholesome yet easy to prepare. The secret lies in the blend of spices that I adjust based on what I have available, making each batch a little different. I encourage you to experiment a bit with herbs to make this dish your own!
One tip that really enhances the flavor is allowing the mixture to chill for about 10 minutes before shaping the patties. This gives the ingredients time to meld together, helping them hold their shape during baking. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center
- Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas
- Versatile for serving in wraps, salads, or solo
- Easily customizable with your favorite spices and veggies
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to a delicious Baked Veggie Chickpea Patty lies in the ingredients used. Chickpeas, being the star of this recipe, provide a nutty flavor and a creamy texture once mashed. They not only serve as a protein source but also bind the patties together. Adding grated zucchini not only contributes moisture but also helps to lighten the mixture, ensuring a tender bite. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to avoid soggy patties.
Incorporating bell peppers and onions brings a sweet depth to the flavor profile. If you're looking for variations, consider swapping in roasted red peppers for a smoky kick or adding finely chopped spinach for extra nutrition. For those who prefer a spicier twist, a dash of cayenne can be mixed in with the spices. Always remember that fresh ingredients can elevate your dish, so choose quality veggies for the best results.
Perfecting Your Patties
When forming patties, the mixture should hold together well without crumbling. If you find it too dry, a splash of water or an extra teaspoon of olive oil can help. Alternatively, if the mixture seems too loose, add more breadcrumbs until you achieve a firmer consistency. It's essential to chill the formed patties before baking; this step helps them set and reduces the chances of them falling apart during cooking.
Baking at the correct temperature is crucial for achieving that lovely, crispy exterior. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) allows the patties to cook evenly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. You're looking for a golden brown color and a slightly firm texture when they're done. This will create a delightful contrast between the crunchy crust and the soft interior.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start:
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure to preheat your oven while you prepare the mixture.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your patties:
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Stir in the grated zucchini, chopped bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs until well combined. Allow the mixture to chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
Form the Patties
Once chilled, use your hands to form the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter. You should be able to get about 10-12 patties from this mix.
Bake the Patties
Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush the tops lightly with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Let the patties cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your choice of dip or sauce!
Pro Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Also, using a food processor makes blending the ingredients quick and easy!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Baked Veggie Chickpea Patties are ideal for meal prep! Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Layer the patties between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can keep for about three months.
If you're making these in advance for a gathering or busy week ahead, I recommend shaping the patties, then freezing them uncooked. Once frozen solid, transfer them into a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can bake them straight from frozen—just add an additional 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serving these patties opens a world of possibilities. For a quick and nutritious meal, place them in a whole grain wrap with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of yogurt sauce or hummus. You might also serve them on a bed of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette for a light salad option. Pairing them with a zesty salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.
For an extra kick, consider serving these patties alongside a spicy aioli or a tangy tzatziki sauce. Not only do these dips complement the flavors, they also enhance the overall experience. Feel free to experiment with different sauces or toppings based on your preferences; this versatility is one of the reasons why these patties are a household favorite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
→ Can I substitute the chickpeas?
You can try using black beans or lentils as alternatives, but the texture may vary.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What dips pair well with these patties?
They pair wonderfully with tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy salsa.
Baked Veggie Chickpea Patties
I absolutely love making these Baked Veggie Chickpea Patties for a healthy snack or a light meal. The combination of chickpeas and fresh vegetables creates a delightful texture that's both satisfying and nutritious. We often serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce or a zesty salsa for added flavor. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a batch that’s perfect for gathering friends or enjoying an easy weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try them, they will quickly become a go-to favorite in your household!
Created by: Miranda Keats
Recipe Type: Soft Cooking
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Stir in the grated zucchini, chopped bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs until well combined. Allow the mixture to chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes.
Once chilled, use your hands to form the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter. You should be able to get about 10-12 patties from this mix.
Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush the tops lightly with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Also, using a food processor makes blending the ingredients quick and easy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 230mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 7g