Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you're a garlic fiend like me!)
• 1 cup cooked brown lentils (I usually use canned for convenience, but feel free to cook your own)
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for that extra crunch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari or liquid aminos if you need gluten-free
• 1 tsp smoked paprika adds such a delicious smoky flavor
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley optional, but adds some freshness
• Salt to taste
• Burger buns-whatever your favorite type is
• Your choice of toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, vegan cheese, etc.

Let's Get Cooking!

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Just don't burn the garlic-that's a tragedy.
2. In a large bowl, lightly mash the cooked lentils with a fork. This will help bind it nicely. Add cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, nuts, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and parsley, if using. Mix well until everything is well combined.
3. Season liberally with salt to taste. This is key! Don't be stingy with the salt, as it brings all the other flavors together. Taste the mixture; you can adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Shape mixture into patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Make them slightly larger than your burger buns, as they will shrink a little while cooking.
5. In that same skillet, over medium heat, add a bit more olive oil. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through. If you are in a hurry, a little more heat is fine, but watch carefully.
6. Lightly toast the burger buns. Then pile your patties on the toasted buns and add your favorite toppings.

Tips and Tricks for Burger Perfection:

• Make it ahead: These burgers can be completely made ahead of time. Simply form the patties, then cover and refrigerate until needed. Just cook when ready to serve!
• Play with flavors: By all means, add any additional spices or herbs to taste. A sprinkle of chili powder could work well!
• Get creative with toppings: Don't stop at the same old. Throw some caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or even some vegan bacon on top. Yum!
• Serve it up!: These burgers are absolutely delicious served with a side salad or some crispy sweet potato fries.

I hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know how your vegan burger party turns out—I'd love to see pictures. And if you have any other suggestions, don't hesitate to comment below! Let's make this the best vegan burger recipe ever!