GRAIN-FREE, NUT-FREE, EGG-FREE, DAIRY-FREE, NIGHTSHADE-FREE
I always say that I should’ve been born in the Mediterranean because the food of Greece, Italy, and Spain really excites my palate. I love the briny olives, bright citrus, and pungent herbs, to name a few. The food is simple and rustic and speaks right to my heart. These Greek turkey burgers are my nod to the region, packed with fresh herbs, lemon, and red onion. The key to a perfect burger is to chop the added veggies finely. Serve these on lettuce wraps with your favorite toppings, on gluten-free buns, or on a salad for a complete meal.
PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES
COOKING TIME: 10 MINUTES
SERVES 6
2 pounds ground 93 percent lean turkey breast
1 cup packed fresh spinach leaves, finely chopped
¼ cup pitted black olives, finely chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint or parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder, or 3 fresh garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Olive oil or ghee for frying
Optional toppings: butter lettuce, sliced tomato, sliced red onion, sliced cucumber, more fresh mint or parsley, basil pesto (see Pesto Salmon Sheet Tray Bake), or feta cheese
In a large mixing bowl, use your hands to combine well the turkey meat with the spinach, olives, lemon zest, onion, mint or parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. But don’t overmix or the meat will become tough. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into burgers.
Warm about a tablespoon of olive oil or ghee in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the burger patties and fry them on one side for about 5 minutes, then flip them, frying on the second side for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
If you like, serve each burger on a large piece of butter lettuce and top them with any of the optional ingredients.
Change It Up
− Serve these on top of a Greek-style salad.
− Swap out the turkey for ground chicken or lamb.