Do the Veggie Patch: Mediterranean Patties

True story: I’m not a perfect housewife.
Though I try really hard to have a fresh, cooked-from-scratch dinner on the table every night, sometimes I really don’t feel like cooking. Other times, my best-laid plans are thwarted by a forgotten ingredient. And more times than I’d like to admit, my lovingly prepared dinner gets burnt beyond recognition.
I used to stockpile frozen pizzas as a backup plan for such evenings, but have you seen the ingredient list on those? I can’t even pronounce most of those items, much less put them in anyone’s belly (including my own) in good conscience.
So when Veggie Patch sent over its newest product, Mediterranean Patties, for testing, I was a bit apprehensive. We’re not big on pre-packaged items in my house, and my partner, who is not a vegetarian like me, tends to roll his eyes at “hippie food” like…well, Mediterranean Patties. But with an open mind, I gladly gave up my long-dinner-preparation duties for the night.
Described as a “blend of spinach, chickpeas and Mediterranean spices,” the patties were designed to be eaten on their own, in a sandwich or on a salad.

As you can see from the ingredient list, “real” ingredients—spinach, onions, wheat flour, chickpeas—are featured prominently in the product. Veggie Patch prides itself on creating products without genetically modified ingredients, trans fats, artificial preservatives or MSG. It definitely tastes like real ingredients, and for a frozen product, it’s actually pretty tasty! Combined with Mediterranean spices, the flavor of the patties is reminiscent of falafel.
When placed in a sandwich, the flavor of the patties got lost—the use of breadcrumbs in the patties meant the flavor got diluted between two slices of bread. However, the fresh flavor of the patties made a great accompaniment to veggies, especially steamed vegetables and salads.
With 5 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber and just 120 calories, one patty is a good choice for those looking to add a little more flavor and substance to a vegetarian meal. Watch out for eating more than one, though—at 350 milligrams of sodium, the patties pack 15 percent of the daily recommended value in just one patty serving.
If you’re a vegetarian looking for convenient meals or just a Fit Bottomed Girl looking for some new Meatless Monday ideas, check out the Veggie Patch line!
Do you shy away from frozen foods, too? What are some of your favorite backup meals when things don’t go as planned? —Susan