Today, we're taking the humble vegan burger to new heights with extra touches that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. This isn't just any vegan burger – it's a gourmet experience that combines convenience with homemade touches. Let's dive in!
This Gourmet Vegan Burger proves that plant-based eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or indulgence. The combination of a perfectly cooked vegan patty, a toasted bun, the zesty homemade aioli, and fresh toppings creates a burger that's both satisfying and impressive.
Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or just treating yourself to a special weeknight dinner, this burger is sure to hit the spot. It's a perfect example of how a few thoughtful touches can elevate a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
So, fire up that grill (or skillet), whip up some aioli, and get ready to bite into burger bliss. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
For the burgers:
- 4 vegan hamburger patties (your favorite store-bought brand)
- 4 burger buns (brioche recommended for extra indulgence)
- Lettuce or microgreens
- Tomato, sliced
- Onion, sliced
- 1-2 avocados, sliced
For the Zesty Cilantro-Lime Aioli:
- 3 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon plain non-dairy yogurt (almond or cashew)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the Zesty Cilantro-Lime Aioli
Let's start with the star of the show--our homemade aioli.
- In a small bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, non-dairy yogurt, finely chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Mix all ingredients until well combined and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Don't be tempted to leave out the lime zest, that's where we get the zesty!
Cook the patties
Now let's get those patties sizzling.
- Prepare your vegan burger patties according to the package instructions. This might involve grilling, pan-frying, or even air frying – follow the method that works best for you and your chosen patties.
Toast the buns
While your patties are cooking, let's give those buns some love:
- Melt some vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place your buns, cut side down, in the skillet and toast until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble Your Gourmet Vegan Burgers
Now for the fun part – putting it all together. You have 2 options with this burger:
- Option 1
- On the bottom slice of your toasty bun add the vegan patty, a generous amount of the aioli, the lettuce, tomato, and onion (and any other toppings you desire). Crown your creation with the top bun.
- Option 2
- On the bottom slice of your toasty bun add the vegan patty, a generous amount of the aioli, avocado slices, and microgreens. Crown your creation with the top bun.
And voila! Your gourmet vegan burger is ready to be devoured.
Tips and Variations
- Bun alternatives: Try a whole grain bun for added fiber or go bun-less with a lettuce wrap for a lighter option.
- Serve with french fries; they are delicious dipped in the aioli.
- Patty varieties: Experiment with different vegan patty flavors – black bean, beet, or even sweet potato patties can add interesting twists.
- Aioli variations: Swap cilantro for parsley or dill or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Extra toppings: Caramelized onions, vegan cheese, or crispy vegan bacon can take this burger to the next level.
Gourmet Vegan Burger with a Zesty Cilantro-Lime Aioli
Ingredients
For the burger:
- 4 hamburger patties your favorite store-bought brand
- 4 burger buns brioche recommended for extra indulgence
- 1 bunch lettuce washed and dried (option 1)
- 1 large tomato sliced (option 1)
- 1 medium onion sliced (option 1)
- 1-2 avocados sliced (option 2)
- 1 handful microgreens washed and dried (option 2)
For the zesty cilantro-lime aioli
- 3 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup cilantro finely chopped
- 3 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ½ cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon plain non-dairy yogurt with almond or cashew work best
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the aioli
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, mayonnaise, yogurt and salt. Mix all ingredients until will combined and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside to let the flavors marry.
Cook the patties
- Prepare your vegan burger patties according to the package instructions. This might involve grilling, pan-frying or even air-frying--follow the method that works best for you and your chosen patty.
Toast the buns
- Melt some vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place your buns, cut side down, in the skillet and toast until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble your burger
Option 1
- On the bottom slice of your toasty bun, add the vegan patty, a generous amount of the aioli, the lettuce, tomato and onion (and any other toppings you desire).
- Crown your creation with the top bun.
Option 2
- On the bottom slice of your toasty bun, add the vegan patty, a generous amount of the aioli, several avocado slices and microgreens.
- Crown your creation with the top bun.
Notes
- Bun alternatives: Try a whole grain bun for added fiber or go bun-less with a lettuce wrap for a lighter option.
- Serve with french fries; they are delicious dipped in the aioli.
- Patty varieties: Experiment with different vegan patty flavors – black bean, beet, or even sweet potato patties can add interesting twists.
- Aioli variations: Swap cilantro for parsley or dill or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Extra toppings: Caramelized onions, vegan cheese, or crispy vegan bacon can take this burger to the next level.
