Lean, healthy, and delicious, Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for a nutritious meal option, this recipe has you covered. The combination of juicy turkey patties paired with a refreshing cucumber salad makes for a delightful and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Option: Made with lean ground turkey and fresh ingredients, this dish is low in calories and high in protein.
- Quick to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, these burgers can be served on buns or over greens for a lighter option.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of herbs and spices enhances the taste without adding extra calories.
- Dairy-Free & Low-Carb: Suitable for various dietary needs, making it an inclusive choice for gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These help ensure everything goes smoothly during preparation and cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or skillet: Provides even cooking and helps achieve that perfect char on your turkey burgers.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spilling.
- Spatula: Handy for flipping patties without breaking them apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for the best flavor balance.
Ingredients
Lean, healthy, and delicious, this meal will satisfy both your body and mind.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground turkey
– 1 egg (large, beaten)
– 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs (or whole-wheat panko, plain)
– 1/3 cup onions (grated or finely chopped)
– 1/3 cup parsley (finely chopped)
– 1 garlic clove (minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 2 teaspoons canola oil (or cooking spray to lightly coat the pan or grill)
– 1 cucumber (diced small)
– 1/2 cup chives (or green onions, chopped)
– 1 tomato (medium, ripe and finely diced)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice (or lemon juice, freshly squeezed)
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by combining all ingredients for the turkey burgers in a mixing bowl. Ensure you include the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, onions, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Form Patties
Once mixed thoroughly, form the mixture into 4 to 5 patties. Make sure they are even in size for consistent cooking.
Step 3: Oil Patties
Sprinkle each patty on both sides with olive oil. Use your fingers to coat them evenly. Lightly oil the grates of your grill to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Prepare Cooking Surface
Set your grill to medium-high heat. If using a skillet or grill pan on the stovetop, ensure it’s lightly oiled as well.
Step 5: Cook Patties
Add the patties to the grill or skillet. Cover if using a grill. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through.
Step 6: Make Cucumber Salad
While the burgers are grilling, mix together all ingredients for the cucumber salad in another bowl. You can serve it at room temperature or chill until ready to serve.
How to Serve Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
Serving Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal. The combination of juicy turkey burgers and refreshing cucumber salad creates a perfect balance of flavors. Here are some suggestions on how to serve this dish.
On a Whole Wheat Bun
- Use whole wheat buns to enhance the nutritional value while adding a hearty texture.
With Avocado Slices
- Top your burger with creamy avocado slices for added richness and healthy fats.
Accompanied by Greek Yogurt Sauce
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt sauce for a tangy flavor that complements the turkey burgers.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the burgers with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic touch.
Served in Lettuce Wraps
- For a low-carb option, wrap the patties in large lettuce leaves instead of using buns.
How to Perfect Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
To achieve the best flavor and texture when making Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad, keep these tips in mind.
- Choose lean turkey: Select ground turkey that is at least 93% lean for a healthier burger without sacrificing flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients gently to keep the patties tender. Overworking can lead to tough burgers.
- Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is preheated before cooking. This helps achieve nice grill marks and keeps the burgers juicy.
- Use a thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the burgers; they should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad can elevate your meal. Consider these delicious options that complement the main dish perfectly.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries offer a crispy texture and natural sweetness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the meal’s flavors, making it refreshing.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides extra protein and fiber, enhancing your meal’s nutrition.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob, either grilled or boiled, makes a classic summer side dish that pairs well.
- Baked Beans: Flavorful baked beans can introduce a savory element that complements the burger’s taste profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the turkey mixture properly can lead to bland burgers. Be sure to add enough salt and pepper, and consider other spices to enhance flavor.
- Overcooking the patties: Cooking the turkey burgers for too long can make them dry. Aim for a cooking time of 5-6 minutes per side and check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
- Neglecting moisture: Using lean ground turkey means it can dry out easily. Incorporate ingredients like grated onion or a bit of olive oil to maintain moisture in your burgers.
- Improper grilling temperature: Starting on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill to medium-high and monitor closely.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into burgers immediately after grilling releases juices, making them dry. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
- Place cooked patties in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake patties on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place patties on a microwave-safe plate; cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil; cook patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad.
How do I make Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad more flavorful?
You can enhance flavor by adding spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder to the turkey mixture. Fresh herbs also work wonders!
Can I prepare the cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes! The cucumber salad can be made up to one day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What is the best way to grill turkey burgers?
To achieve juicy burgers, preheat your grill, oil the grates lightly, and avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking.
Can I customize my Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like avocado, cheese, or different veggies based on your preference.
Are these burgers suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad are perfect for meal prep. They store well in the fridge or freezer and reheat nicely.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad are not only healthy but also delicious and versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with different spices or toppings, making it suitable for various tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and mind!
Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad
Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cucumber Salad are a healthy and delicious option for any meal, whether you’re firing up the grill at a summer barbecue or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner. These juicy turkey patties, made from lean ground turkey, are complemented by a refreshing cucumber salad that adds a crisp, light contrast. This recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking less than 30 minutes—but also versatile enough to serve in various ways, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish caters to various dietary needs while ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys a flavorful meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/3 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons canola oil for cooking
- 1 cucumber, diced small
- 1/2 cup chopped chives or green onions
- 1 medium ripe tomato, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, onions, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into 4 to 5 equal-sized patties.
- Lightly coat each patty with olive oil and preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through.
- While grilling, mix the cucumber salad ingredients in another bowl and set aside.
- Serve the turkey burgers with the cucumber salad on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg