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 cup grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out; 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper; 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/2 cup cooked quinoa; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these baked Mediterranean veggie patties because they pack a punch of flavor while being incredibly wholesome. Each bite bursts with the vibrant tastes of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, making them an enjoyable meal any day of the week. They're perfect served warm in a pita or as a protein-packed snack on their own! Plus, baking instead of frying means I can indulge without the guilt, and it makes the cleanup a breeze.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:07:27.114Z

When I first attempted to create these patties, I knew I wanted to incorporate the flavors of the Mediterranean diet, which is so rich in vegetables and healthy fats. After experimenting with different combinations, I found that using chickpeas as the base provided a lovely texture and protein boost. Adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese brought the flavors to life!

One of my favorite parts of these patties is the addition of fresh herbs. They make such a difference in the overall taste, and a simple tip is to chop them finely to release their essential oils. Baking them allows the flavors to meld beautifully without the extra calories from frying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with Mediterranean flavors that are refreshing and satisfying
Perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining moist inside
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or leftover grains

      

The Role of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a star ingredient in these baked Mediterranean veggie patties, providing a hearty base and a good source of protein. Their slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture become the backbone of the patties, helping them hold together while adding richness. If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use white beans or lentils, but be mindful that different legumes may change the texture and absorb moisture differently.

When mashing the chickpeas, take care not to overdo it. You want them mostly broken down yet still slightly chunky, as this will give the patties a pleasant bite and prevent them from becoming too mushy. An uneven mash can also help with binding as the pieces clump together while baking.

Vegetable Variations

One of the beauties of this recipe is its flexibility with vegetables. While zucchini and red bell pepper bring a compelling flavor and moisture, you can swap in grated carrots, chopped spinach, or even roasted eggplant, depending on what’s in your fridge or to suit your taste. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to achieve that desirable crispy exterior. If using leafy greens, wilting them beforehand helps reduce water content.

For a more intense flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the mixture. This step elevates their sweetness and aromatic properties, contributing to a richer end product. Just be sure to let the sautéed mixture cool slightly before incorporating it into the patties to avoid cooking the chickpeas.

Serving and Storing

These baked veggie patties can be enjoyed hot out of the oven or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for picnics or meal prep. For a fantastic serving suggestion, I recommend pairing them with a tangy tzatziki or a vibrant salad for a refreshing contrast. They can also be layered in a pita with fresh veggies and sauces for an easy, delicious wrap.

If you have leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by laying the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. This way, you can bake them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up a delicious batch of veggie patties.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to have everything measured and prepared for optimal cooking.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the veggie patties.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mash the Chickpeas

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until slightly chunky.

Mix Ingredients

Add the grated zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, cooked quinoa, feta cheese, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, parsley, and breadcrumbs to the chickpeas. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Shape the Patties

With your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

Lightly drizzle the patties with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Serve

Let the patties cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm in a pita or as a delightful snack!

These veggie patties can also be stored in the fridge for a quick meal during the week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these patties by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. You can also make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Troubleshooting Texture Issues

If your patties are falling apart during baking, it’s likely that the mixture is too wet or lacks enough binding agents. To help with this, increase the amount of breadcrumbs or add a little extra mashed chickpeas to create a firmer consistency. Alternatively, if they are too dry, a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water can help to moisten the mixture.

Watch for the baking time too; if they are undercooked, they may remain soft and difficult to handle. Aim for golden brown edges and a firm texture when you remove them from the oven. An instant-read thermometer can help—these patties are done around 165°F (74°C).

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, so you can double or triple the ingredients for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. When scaling up, keep an eye on the mixing time—thoroughly combine the ingredients to ensure even distribution. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly; larger batches can take longer, so be patient and check for that lovely golden brown color.

If you plan to make them in bulk, working in batches is advisable. This way, you can focus on forming the patties without feeling rushed, leading to a more consistent texture and appearance. Plus, it makes the cooking process much more enjoyable!

Customizing Your Patties

Feel free to experiment with adding spices depending on your flavor preferences. For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. Meanwhile, herbs like basil or mint can infuse the patties with fresh Mediterranean zest that brightens the overall taste.

If you prefer to reduce the cheese or go dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a wonderful substitute that adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy. Just remember to adjust the salt levels accordingly, as cheese can contribute to the overall sodium content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Just shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with the patties?

These patties are excellent served with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or in a salad.

→ How can I make these vegan?

To make these patties vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

→ Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier option and keeps them crispy without the added oil from frying.