February Focus Foods Recipe: Crispy Shiitake Lentil Oat Patties + Bright Blood Orange Relish

Savory Shiitake Lentil–Oat Patties with Blood Orange Parsley Relish Recipe

February is about grounding foods that support energy, digestion, and resilience during cooler months.

This recipe brings together lentils, oats, shiitake mushrooms, garlic, blood oranges, and parsley—a powerful mix of fiber, plant protein, antioxidants, and immune-supporting nutrients. These patties are hearty without feeling heavy and pair beautifully with the bright citrus relish for balance.

This is a meal you can prep once and enjoy several ways throughout the week.

Why These February Focus Foods Work Together

• Lentils + oats create a satisfying protein-fiber combo that supports steady blood sugar and fullness.
• Shiitake mushrooms and garlic add savory depth while supporting immune health.
• Blood oranges and parsley brighten the dish with vitamin C and antioxidants that help counter winter sluggishness.

Ingredients (Serves 4 | Makes 8 patties)

Shiitake Lentil–Oat Patties

• 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils (drained)
• ¾ cup rolled oats
• 1 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp ground chia seeds + 2½ tbsp water (chia “egg”)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Blood Orange Parsley Relish

• 1 large blood orange, peeled and diced
• 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the chia egg
   Mix ground chia seeds with water. Let sit 5 minutes until gelled.
2. Sauté the mushrooms
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shiitake mushrooms and garlic. Cook 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
3. Make the patty mixture
   In a bowl, lightly mash lentils. Stir in oats, sautéed mushrooms, parsley, spices, and chia egg. Mix until combined.
4. Form and cook patties
   Shape into 8 patties. Cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and firm.
5. Make the relish
   Gently toss all relish ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve
   Top warm patties with blood orange parsley relish just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over a simple greens salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Tuck into a whole-grain pita or lettuce wrap
• Pair with roasted vegetables or quinoa
• Enjoy cold the next day as a protein-rich lunch

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving | 2 patties + relish)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~14 g
• Fiber: ~11 g
• Fat: ~9 g
• Carbohydrates: ~42 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

(Estimates will vary based on brands and portion size.)

Health Benefits at a Glance

• Lentils: Plant protein, iron, and gut-supporting fiber
• Oats: Beta-glucan fiber for heart health and sustained energy
• Shiitake mushrooms: Immune-supporting compounds and B vitamins
• Garlic: Natural anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular support
• Blood oranges: Vitamin C and antioxidants for skin and immunity
• Parsley: Detox-supportive and rich in vitamin K

Plant-Based Flex Tip

These patties freeze beautifully. Make a double batch and keep them on hand for quick, nourishing meals when life gets busy.

Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle, especially if you have existing conditions or take medication.

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