A Refreshing Summer Meal: Eggplant Burger Patties

Summer is the perfect time to embrace light, refreshing meals that showcase the bounty of the season. One of my favorite summer dishes is my homemade eggplant burger patties. They are a delightful vegetarian option that’s both hearty and satisfying. Today, I’ll share not only the recipe for these delicious patties but also some ideas for creating a complete summer meal around them.

The Star of the Show: Eggplant Burger Patties

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

Prepare the Eggplant:

• Begin by peeling and dicing the eggplant into small cubes.
• Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced eggplant and cook until it becomes soft and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix the Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked eggplant, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), beaten egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Form the Patties:

• Using your hands, form the mixture into burger-sized patties.
• If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until you reach the desired consistency.

1. Cook the Patties:

• Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and firm.

Serve:

• Serve the patties on toasted buns with your favorite toppings and condiments. I love adding fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and a dollop of tzatziki or homemade secret sauce.

Building the Perfect Summer Meal

Now that you have your delicious eggplant burger patties, let’s build a complete summer meal around them.

1. Fresh Summer Salad:
A crisp, refreshing salad pairs perfectly with these savory patties. Try a Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette.

2. Grilled Vegetables:
Take advantage of summer’s vegetable bounty by grilling some bell peppers, zucchini, and corn on the cob. A light brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper is all you need to enhance their natural flavors.

3. Light and Refreshing Drink:
Pair your meal with a cooling drink such as Rosemary Lemon Blueberry Spritzer.

Enjoy!

This eggplant burger patties recipe is a versatile and delightful addition to any summer menu. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the season while keeping your meal light and nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet dinner on the patio, these patties will be a hit. Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!

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