Oh, let me tell you about these Vegan Lentil Sliders! I absolutely adore making them, not just for their taste but also for the cozy memories they bring me. I remember the first time I whipped these up for a weekend barbecue with friends. I threw together a little ‘food truck’ theme and served them with homemade sweet potato fries. To my surprise, everyone loved them—even those who typically shy away from vegetarian food! Now they always insist on having these at our gatherings.
What makes these sliders uniquely delightful is their combination of flavors and textures. The lentils give a hearty, earthy base, while the spices and toppings add a burst of brightness. Whether you’re hosting a party, need an easy meal-prep option, or just want a fun and tasty burger, these sliders are the way to go!
What’s in Vegan Lentil Sliders?
Lentils: The star of the show! I prefer using green or brown lentils for their texture, which holds up beautifully during cooking. Plus, they’re just so easy to prepare!
Onion: Diced onion adds a sweet and savory depth. I like to use yellow onions, but feel free to switch it up with shallots or red onions if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic provide that irresistible aroma and rich flavor. Don’t be shy; you can definitely add a little more if you’re a garlic lover like me!
Carrots: Shredded carrots mix in moisture and a slight natural sweetness. If you have any leftover baby carrots, just toss them in the food processor!
Breadcrumbs: They help bind everything together. I recommend whole wheat breadcrumbs, but gluten-free ones work if you’re looking for that option.
Spices: A mix of cumin, paprika, and a dash of salt and pepper infuses the sliders with warmth and complexity. Adjust according to your taste buds!
Olive Oil: A little drizzle not only helps with cooking but adds healthy fats too. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to here.
Is Vegan Lentil Sliders Good for You?
Absolutely! These sliders are packed with nutrients that nourish your body without compromising on taste.
Lentils: They’re a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full longer. Plus, they’re rich in iron, which is essential for energy.
Carrots: Not only do they add flavor but they’re loaded with beta-carotene, promoting eye health. Who doesn’t love a good reason to munch on veggies?
Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: They add some fiber and aid in digestion. Just make sure to check for whole grain ingredients for maximum health benefits.
However, because the sliders are still a bit carb-heavy due to the breadcrumbs, that’s something to keep in mind if you’re watching your carb intake.
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils (about ½ cup dry)
– ½ onion, finely diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 medium carrot, grated
– ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Your favorite slider buns
– Toppings: lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayo, or whatever you desire
This recipe serves about 4 people, so invite some pals over and enjoy!
How to Make Vegan Lentil Sliders?
1. First, cook the lentils. Rinse them thoroughly and boil them in water for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine your cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, and spices. Mix until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small patties. They should hold together but feel free to add more breadcrumbs if the mixture seems too wet.
5. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Assemble your sliders on buns with your favorite toppings. I can’t resist a little avocado and a dollop of vegan mayo!
The Perfect Pairings
Try customizing your sliders! You can add different spices or mix in some cooked quinoa for an extra protein boost. Feeling adventurous? How about a smoky BBQ sauce or switching the toppings for a spicy relish?
I also love serving these sliders with a refreshing side salad or sweet potato fries. They really are a crowd-pleaser, and I promise you’ll go back for seconds!
I hope you decide to try making these Vegan Lentil Sliders. They’re such a wonderful addition to any meal—plus, they’ll impress your family and friends. If you give them a whirl, I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Do let me know your favorite toppings too; I’m always on the lookout for new ideas! Happy cooking!