It’s true – raw almonds are a healthy and nutritious snack – but if you’re ready to take them to the next level, try my Lentil & Almond Burgers. A one ounce serving of almonds has 6 grams of protein and 3.5 grams of fiber. Almonds are calorically dense (161 calories per ounce) but the good news is 10-15% of the calories are not absorbed by the body. Other benefits include:

  • High in Vitamin E (protects cells from damage)
  • High in magnesium (promotes heart health and keeps blood pressure normal)
  • A good source of manganese (aids in processing cholesterol, carbohydrates and protein)

Note: This recipe is not meant to replicate the taste of a classic hamburger – the flavor is different but satisfying just the same!

Lentil & Almond Burgers

Lentil-Almond burger with Roasted Potatoes

Ingredients

Makes 6 Patties

  • 6 cups water
  • 1 cup lentils
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • ¾ cup finely chopped carrot
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped onion
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped celery (about 1 stalk)
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds
  • 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • ½ teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparation

Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan. Stir in lentils, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until very tender and beginning to break down, about 15-20 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add carrot, onion and celery and cook, stirring, until softened. Add almonds through pepper; continue cooking until the almonds are lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a food processor; add 1 ½ cups of the cooked lentils. Pulse several times, scraping down the sides until the mixture is coarsely ground. Transfer to a large bowl; stir in the remaining lentils. Let cool for 10 minutes. Mix in egg and lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Form the lentil mixture into 6 patties. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Turn gently and continue to cook until lightly browned and heated through, 3 to 4 minutes more. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Per serving: 197 calories; 7.5 g fat; 8 g fiber; 23 g carbohydrates; 10 g protein

 

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