Lentil Burger with Arugula and Tomato Salad: A Vegetarian Flavor Explosion

Ingredients: For the Lentil Burger

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 2 cups of water
• 1/2 chopped onion
• 1 clove of minced garlic
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or rolled oats)

Ingredients: For Arugula and Tomato Salad

• 2 cups washed and dried arugula
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Ingredients: To serve

• Whole grain breads
• Baked sweet potato (optional)

Preparation method: For the Lentil Burger

1. Wash the lentils well and place them in a pan with water.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. Drain the lentils and set aside.
4. In a frying pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.
5. Add the grated carrot and sauté for another 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked lentils, parsley, salt, black pepper and breadcrumbs (or rolled oats).
7. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the dough is smooth.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
9. With damp hands, shape the dough into burgers of the desired size.

Preparation method: For the Salad:

1. In a bowl, mix the arugula, tomato, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and black pepper.
2. Mix well and set aside.

Burger Assembly:

1. Grill the lentil burgers over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
2. Assemble the burgers on whole-wheat buns with the arugula and tomato salad.
3. Serve hot with roasted sweet potatoes (optional) and enjoy!