Name: Veggie Lentil Patties Sandwich with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups dry green or brown lentils; 1 large potato (peeled); 1 onion (peeled); 2 whole carrots (peeled); Water to cover; Salt to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus more if needed); 1 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1-2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chili flakes; Oil for shallow frying; Turkish-style bread rolls or pita; Yogurt-based sauce like Tzatziki; Tomato slices; Onion slices mixed with parsley and sumac; Grilled long green peppers (optional); Pickles (optional)

Introduction

This Veggie Patties Sandwich is a flavorful, high-protein vegan option perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. Made with lentils and fresh vegetables, these patties are spiced with paprika and cumin, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Served inside soft bread rolls with refreshing toppings, it’s a satisfying and nutritious meal anyone can enjoy.

A flat, oval-shaped pita bread lies on a wooden board, toasted lightly with some browned spots; on top, there is a layer of creamy white tzatziki sauce with small green herb pieces. Over the sauce, a dark brown, crispy falafel patty is placed horizontally. Next, there are thinly sliced red onions mixed with chopped green herbs, loosely piled on the falafel. Finally, three bright red tomato slices are arranged in a row on top, sprinkled with red chili flakes and more herbs. In the background, a white plate contains additional sliced tomatoes and red onions, and a brown bowl holds more tzatziki sauce, all set on the board. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups dry green or brown lentils

1 large potato, peeled

1 onion, peeled

2 whole carrots, peeled

Water to cover

Salt to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (add more if needed)

1 cup chopped fresh parsley

1-2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: chili flakes

Oil for shallow frying

Turkish-style bread rolls or pita

Yogurt-based sauce like tzatziki

Tomato slices

Onion slices mixed with parsley and sumac

Grilled long green peppers (optional)

Pickles (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the lentils to a large pot. Place the whole peeled potato, onion, and carrots on top. Cover with water, season lightly with salt, and cook until everything is soft, about 25–30 minutes.

Step 2: Drain any excess water. Mash the lentils, carrots, onion, and potato together in the pot until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky.

Step 3: Transfer the mash to a bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Mix well until the mixture holds together. Add more breadcrumbs if needed.

Step 4: Shape the mixture into oval or square patties by pressing firmly with your hands.

Step 5: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the patties on both sides until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 6: Slice the bread rolls or pita. Spread yogurt-based sauce inside, then layer with tomato slices, the onion-parsley mix, 3–4 lentil patties, grilled green pepper if using, and pickles if desired. Press lightly and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra binding, add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed soaked in water to the mixture before shaping the patties.

Swap paprika for smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep this recipe gluten-free.

Grill the patties instead of frying for a lighter version.

Add chopped fresh mint or cilantro to the onion-parsley mix for a fresh twist.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of dry lentils?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Be sure to drain and rinse them well, and reduce cooking time accordingly since canned lentils are already cooked.

What bread is best for these patties?

Turkish-style bread rolls or pita work great as they are soft and have enough structure to hold the patties and toppings without falling apart. You can use any bread you prefer, such as burger buns or flatbreads.