Sweet Pea and Feta Cheese Burgers: A Flavorful Twist

Introduction

As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I was thrilled to try out the Sweet Pea and Feta Cheese Burgers. The first time I made them, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. My family, initially skeptical about a veggie burger, was won over by the creamy feta and the sweetness of the peas. We enjoyed these burgers on a sunny afternoon, and they became an instant hit. The combination of fresh herbs and the creamy yogurt sauce added a delightful touch that turned a simple meal into something special. Here’s how you can make these delicious burgers yourself!

Ingredients

For the Burgers:

• 1 (10-ounce) package Birds Eye® Steamfresh® Sweet Peas
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Peas

1. Blanch the sweet peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
2. Drain and mash them in a bowl using a fork.

Cook the Potatoes

1. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15 minutes).
2. Drain and let them cool for about 10 minutes.

Mix the Burger Ingredients

1. In the bowl with the mashed sweet peas, add the cooled potatoes, chopped onion, crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix well until combined.

Form the Patties

1. Shape the mixture into patties about 4 inches in diameter.
2. Refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes to firm up.

Make the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, crumbled feta, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cook the Patties

1. Spray the patties with olive oil.
2. Air fry at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Assemble the Burgers

1. Serve the patties on toasted buns.
2. Top with the creamy yogurt sauce, fresh tomato, onion, and arugula.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve on toasted buns.
• Top with:
• Creamy yogurt sauce
• Fresh tomato slices
• Sliced red onion
• Arugula or spinach
• Accompany with:
• A side of sweet potato fries
• A fresh salad
• Pickles or olives

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor; try to use fresh dill and parsley instead of dried.
2. Chill the Patties: Allowing the patties to chill in the fridge helps them hold together better during cooking.
3. Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add garlic or a touch of hot sauce to the yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
4. Make Ahead: The patties can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
5. Try Different Cheeses: Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste profile.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Option: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the burger mix for some heat.
• Vegan Version: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based yogurt for the sauce.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil for unique flavors.
• Grilled Version: Instead of air frying, grill the patties for a smoky flavor.
• Add Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Beverages: These burgers go well with lemonade, iced tea, or a light white wine.
• Offer a Salad Bar: Set up a salad bar with various toppings, allowing everyone to customize their burgers.
• Accompany with Dips: Serve with a variety of dips like hummus or tzatziki for added flavor options.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
   Yes, frozen peas work perfectly; just thaw and mash them before using.
2. How can I make these burgers gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free buns or serve the patties without a bun, atop a salad.
3. Can I grill these burgers instead of air frying?
   Absolutely! Just be careful while flipping them on the grill as they are more delicate than traditional meat burgers.
4. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
   Goat cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives.
5. Is there a way to make these burgers spicier?
   Yes, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mix.
6. How do I know when the patties are done cooking?
   They should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Can I prep the mixture in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.
8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the air fryer or oven to retain the crispiness.
9. Are these burgers suitable for kids?
   Yes, they’re a nutritious option that many kids enjoy, especially with the creamy sauce.
10. Can I add more vegetables to the burger mixture?
    Definitely! Grated carrots or zucchini can be good additions.

Conclusion

Sweet Pea and Feta Cheese Burgers are a delightful and nutritious option for anyone looking to switch up their burger game. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a healthier meal, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs. With its bright flavors and creamy sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next family dinner or barbecue. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delicious twist on a classic burger! Enjoy every bite!

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