Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table, then these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers are just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my household because it’s not only packed with flavor but also super easy to whip up on busy weeknights or for casual family gatherings. The combination of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta gives these burgers a wonderful twist that will impress even your toughest critics.

What I love most about these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers is how colorful and vibrant they are! They not only taste great, but they also make your plate look beautiful. Plus, with the creamy lemon dill yogurt sauce on top, each bite is a burst of refreshing flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the juicy flavors, making it perfect for picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the turkey mixture ahead of time for quick cooking later in the week.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of herbs and toppings creates a delightful taste explosion!
• Healthy Option: Lean turkey and fresh vegetables make this a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers is a breeze with simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt ($0.50)
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice ($0.03)
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder ($0.02)
• 1/8 tsp dried dill ($0.02)
• 1/8 tsp salt ($0.02)

For the Turkey Burgers

• 19 oz. ground turkey (see notes, $3.89)
• 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes ($0.83)
• 1/4 cup minced red onion ($0.08)
• 2 oz. frozen spinach (1 cup when frozen, $0.25)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta ($0.57)
• 1 tsp dried oregano ($0.10)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder ($0.02)
• 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)

For Cooking and Serving

• 1 Tbsp cooking oil ($0.04)
• 5 hamburger buns ($3.04)
• 1/2 cucumber (sliced, $0.75)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or beef if you prefer something different!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
• Change the cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free option.
• Experiment with spices: Add some cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist!

How to Make Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by making your lemon dill yogurt sauce first! Stir together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, and salt in a bowl until it’s well combined. Pop it in the fridge while you prepare everything else; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Add-Ins

Now it’s time to get our add-ins ready for those tasty burgers! Finely chop your sun-dried tomatoes and mince or finely dice that red onion. Crumble your feta cheese and don’t forget about the spinach! Thaw it out and squeeze all that excess moisture out so your burgers don’t get soggy.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a big mixing bowl, add your ground turkey along with those lovely sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, spinach, oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything together gently until just combined—overmixing can make your burgers tough!

Step 4: Shape Your Patties

Now comes the fun part—shape that turkey mixture into five burger patties! Make them flatter and wider than usual; trust me on this one—they will shrink as they cook!

Step 5: Cook Your Burgers

Heat ½ tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking—this ensures nice browning without burning! Add three of your patties at once (don’t overcrowd!) and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

To serve these scrumptious burgers, smear some of that zesty lemon dill yogurt sauce onto each bun first! Then layer on your turkey burger followed by sliced cucumbers and extra red onion if desired—enjoy every mouthwatering bite!

And there you have it! These Mediterranean Turkey Burgers are sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

These Mediterranean Turkey Burgers are super easy to whip up, and I have a few tips to help you achieve burger perfection!

• Use Thawed Spinach – Make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the moisture from your spinach. This prevents your burgers from becoming soggy and helps maintain their texture.

• Chill the Mixture – After mixing the turkey and ingredients, let the mixture chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This firms up the patties, making them easier to handle when you’re shaping them.

• Flatten the Patties – Shape your burger patties slightly flatter than usual. They tend to puff up while cooking, so starting with a wider shape ensures they cook evenly and fit nicely on the bun.

• Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on your cooking time! Overcooking can lead to dry burgers. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for juicy, flavorful results.

• Experiment with Flavor – Feel free to add other spices or herbs based on your taste preferences. A pinch of smoked paprika or some chopped fresh parsley can add a delightful twist!

How to Serve Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

Serving these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers is as fun as making them! With vibrant colors and fresh flavors, they’ll be a hit at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Dill Sprigs – A few sprigs of fresh dill not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful pop of green.
• Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado slices provide richness that complements the tangy yogurt sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed with olive oil and lemon juice brings out the Mediterranean theme beautifully.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh – This light salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice offers a healthy side that’s packed with flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender make a colorful addition.
• Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with these savory burgers.

Enjoy crafting your Mediterranean Turkey Burgers! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a great way to bring friends and family together around the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Turkey Burgers are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare the patties in advance and store them for later use or whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• For added freshness, place parchment paper between layers of burgers if stacking.

Freezing

• To freeze uncooked patties, lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For reheating cooked burgers, use a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on a plate covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, cook directly from frozen in a skillet, allowing extra cooking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Mediterranean Turkey Burgers.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield delicious results similar to the Mediterranean Turkey Burgers.

How do I make Mediterranean Turkey Burgers without feta?

If you’d like to skip the feta cheese in your Mediterranean Turkey Burgers, consider using crumbled tofu or nutritional yeast as alternatives for that savory flavor.

Can I grill these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers?

Yes! Grilling adds fantastic flavor. Just ensure your grill is preheated and lightly oiled before placing the patties on it.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers! They are not only bursting with vibrant flavors but also easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether it’s for dinner or meal prep, these burgers are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience—I’d love to hear how they turn out!