Pesto Veggie Burgers with Balsamic Aioli

We’ve done veggie burgers and pesto separately, but together? Our only regret is not trying it sooner! These herby, savory chickpea burgers join forces with sliced tomato, arugula, and a creamy, bright balsamic aioli for a major dose of YUM! Just 30 minutes required for this satisfying plant-based main, perfect for summer BBQs or a quick weeknight meal!

Ingredients

Burgers

• 1 ½ – 2 Tbsp avocado oil (DIVIDED // for cooking shallots/burgers)
• 2 medium shallots, finely minced (2 shallots yield ~1/3 cup or 53 g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought // vegan as needed — see notes for brand recommendations)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (homemade or store-bought // vegan/gluten-free as needed // we used Ian’s GF Panko)

Balsamic Aioli

• 1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise (or store-bought)
• 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

For Serving

• Sliced tomato (~1 large tomato)
• Arugula (or other greens of choice)
• Hamburger buns (gluten-free/vegan as needed)

Instructions

1. Burgers: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 Tbsp oil, shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes (optional). Sauté, stirring frequently, until shallot and garlic are soft and translucent — about 1-2 minutes.
2. Transfer garlic and shallot mixture to a mixing bowl. Then add drained chickpeas and use a fork or pastry cutter to mash/mix. A little texture is okay, but you only want a few large pieces of chickpeas remaining.
3. Add the pesto and breadcrumbs and mix until well combined. You want it to form into a moldable “dough.” Taste and adjust as needed, adding more pesto for herby flavor, breadcrumbs if too wet, or a pinch of salt for overall balance.
4. Divide into 4 even patties. To help form them, line a 1/2 cup measuring cup with plastic wrap and scoop out 1/2 cup amounts. Press to pack, then lift out and slightly flatten with hands.
5. Heat the same skillet you used earlier to medium heat. Once hot, add enough oil to form a thin layer on the bottom of your skillet, then add only as many burgers as will fit comfortably. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping gently and reducing heat if browning too quickly.
6. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving (they’ll firm up a bit during this time).
7. Balsamic Aioli: While your burgers cool, combine the mayonnaise and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl.
8. To serve, spread balsamic aioli on both sides of a toasted bun. Layer the bottom bun with the burger, sliced tomato, arugula, and top of the bun.
9. Leftover burgers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, though they’re best when fresh. See notes for freezing.

Enjoy these Pesto Veggie Burgers with Balsamic Aioli with your favorite burger sides, such as potato chips, fries, sweet potatoes, grilled veggies, slaws, or salads. They’re herby, savory, satisfying, quick and easy, perfect for summer, and SO delicious!