Baked Mediterranean Veggie Patties

Name: Baked Mediterranean Veggie Patties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small zucchini, grated; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, and these baked veggie patties capture that essence perfectly! When I set out to create a healthier, baked version, I was amazed at how delicious they turned out. Packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, bell peppers, and aromatic herbs, these patties are fantastic as a snack or a meal. I also adore how versatile they are – served in pita bread with tzatziki, or on a fresh salad, they never disappoint!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:22:14.666Z

During my recent quest for healthy meal options, I stumbled upon the idea of baked veggie patties. I’ve tried frying similar recipes in the past, but baking really allows the natural flavors to shine through. I experimented with various spices and textures, finally coming up with this perfect balance that encapsulates the Mediterranean flair. It's fascinating how these simple ingredients can transform into such a satisfying dish!

One key tip I learned is to let the mixture rest for a bit before shaping the patties. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to form them without crumbling. Trust me, the effort is worth it when you taste the result. These patties are not only gratifying but also guilt-free!

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and aromas
Healthy and baked, not fried
Quick and easy to prepare for lunch or dinner

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The key to a fantastic batch of baked Mediterranean veggie patties starts with high-quality ingredients. Choose chickpeas that are fresh and well-drained to achieve the desired texture. If you're in a pinch, canned chickpeas work well, but I recommend rinsing them thoroughly to reduce the sodium content and remove any metallic aftertaste. The bell pepper adds a sweet crunch, while the zucchini contributes moisture, keeping the patties tender. Opting for a combination of colors in your peppers not only enhances the visual appeal but also deepens the flavor profile.

Herbs are essential for a vibrant flavor in these patties. Fresh parsley stands out with its bright, grassy notes, while dried oregano brings earthy warmth. Adjust the herb quantities to suit your taste—experimenting with different herbs like basil or mint could also heighten the Mediterranean flair. For those who prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.

Mastering the Baking Technique

Baking the patties at the right temperature is crucial for achieving a golden-brown exterior while ensuring the inside remains moist and flavorful. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal results. During baking, flip the patties halfway through to ensure an even cook and promote a uniformly crispy texture. Keep an eye on them; they should achieve a rich golden color after about 25-30 minutes, which is a sign that they are perfectly done.

For those even more health-conscious or looking to cut down on oil, consider using an olive oil spray for brushing the patties before baking. This method uses less oil while still promoting browning. If you find your patties are falling apart during cooking, slightly increasing the amount of breadcrumbs or letting the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes can help them bind better before shaping.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients to make your patties flavorful and healthy.

Ingredients for Baked Mediterranean Veggie Patties

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small zucchini, grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly baked veggie patties.

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until mostly smooth. Add diced bell pepper, grated zucchini, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix until combined.

Season and Form Patties

Stir in breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into patties, about 2 inches wide.

Bake the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.

Serve

Serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

These baked patties are great for meal prep; they refrigerate well!

Pro Tips

For added spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. These patties also freeze beautifully—just thaw and reheat before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These baked Mediterranean veggie patties are an excellent make-ahead meal option. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply shape into patties and bake as instructed. If you want to freeze them, shape the patties and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Store leftover baked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Alternatively, a quick reheat in a skillet over medium heat works great too—just be sure to add a drop of olive oil to revive their texture.

Serving Suggestions

These veggie patties shine as a filling snack or as part of a hearty meal. For a refreshing lunch, serve them in a warm pita alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and crisp lettuce. Incorporating fresh veggies like cucumber and tomato not only heightens the Mediterranean experience but also adds extra crunch and freshness to each bite. You can also pair them with a quinoa or couscous salad drizzled with lemon for a complete meal that feels satisfying yet light.

If you’re looking for a more substantial dinner, these patties can be served atop a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a lemon-olive oil vinaigrette. You could also enjoy them with a side of roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad featuring farro or bulgur. The versatility of these patties means they can fit seamlessly into various meal plans, making them a great addition to your weekly menu.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different legume instead of chickpeas?

Yes, you can use black beans or lentils as a substitute for chickpeas.

→ How can I make these patties vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly, just ensure your breadcrumbs are also vegan.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these patties?

Tzatziki, hummus, or a lemon tahini sauce would pair perfectly!

→ Can I prepare these patties ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.