If you’re looking for a meal that’s both hearty and nourishing, these Spiced Turkey and Lentil Patties are a must-try. They bring together lean turkey mince and earthy lentils, creating a protein-packed dish that’s flavorful yet light.

The combination of cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika gives the patties a warm, aromatic character, while the herbed yogurt dip adds a cool, tangy contrast. Perfect for dinner, meal prep, or even as a high-protein snack.

Whether you’re maintaining a healthy lifestyle or simply love delicious home-cooked meals, this recipe checks all the boxes — nutritious, satisfying, and incredibly tasty.

Ingredients

• 500g lean turkey mince
• 200g cooked Puy or green lentils
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 30g fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 200g low-fat Greek yogurt
• 15g fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey mince, cooked lentils, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly with your hands until well combined, being careful not to overmix. Divide the mixture and form it into 8 evenly-sized patties.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it (cook in batches if necessary).
4. Cook the patties for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 74°C.
5. While the patties are cooking, prepare the dip. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, and lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Serve the warm turkey and lentil patties immediately with the cool herbed yogurt dip on the side. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad.

Tips & Substitutions

• Make it vegetarian: Replace turkey with mashed chickpeas or extra lentils for a plant-based version.
• Adjust the heat: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Meal prep tip: These patties freeze beautifully — just reheat in a skillet or oven for a quick, healthy meal.

Nutrition

Approximate total per batch:

• Calories: 1450 kcal
• Fat: 62g
• Carbohydrates: 72g
• Fiber: 20g
• Protein: 141g