Burgers, Barbecues and Hand Shakes

Here we are getting ready to kick off the summer once again......and although this weekend is usually filled with yard sales, barbecues and parades (and bug spray), we also have to keep in mind what this weekend is all about ------>

Memorial Day is a day on which those who died in active military service are remembered. So please, while you are enjoying your family and friends, remember those who have fought for us and our freedoms in years past.

I hope you all enjoy your weekend. If you are planning on hosting a nice barbecue, here are some helpful (and yummy!) additions to the menu.  Burgers are a go-to item for most outdoor gatherings, so here is a nice change of pace:  a burger with a punch!  If spicy burgers are not your style, here is a milder version of a tasty, healthy burger.  

And what is a cookout without the side dishes?  Try this cleaner version of potato salad!  

Last but not least, let's talk about some dessert!!  That's right--you know that there will be the need for some sweetness so why not go with something like this festive cheesecake trifle!!!

INGREDIENTS

Photo credit:  http://selfproclaimedfoodie.com/spicy-southwestern-turkey-burgers/

Servings: 4

Patties

1 pound ground turkey

⅓ cup red onion, minced

1 jalapeño pepper, minced

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1½ teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

Toppings

Sesame seed bun

Shredded lettuce

Sliced tomato

Pepper Jack cheese

Avocado

Chipotle Mayo
½ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons canned chilies in adobo

½ lime, juiced

PREPARATION

Place turkey, onion, jalapeño, and spices together in a large bowl and mix together until all the ingredients are incorporated.

Lightly wet your hands and use them to shape 4 circular patties about 4 inches in diameter.

Heat up about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat------->

or go outside and GRILL 'EM!!!

Cook burgers for 2 minutes on the first side, then flip, lower heat to low, and cook them for an additional 5-6 minutes.

NOTE: the turkey burgers must be cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check each patty for an internal temperature of at least 165˚F before removing from pan.

Assemble the burgers as desired with bun, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and preferred condiments.

Recipes from:  

Black Bean Turkey Burger:  http://reluctantentertainer.com/black-bean-turkey-burgers/

Southwestern Turkey Burgers:  https://www.buzzfeed.com/jordankenna/southwestern-style-turkey-burgers?utm_term=.uwrMkkm56&sub=4440795_10322349#.ru2ann3WG