Grilling your way to good health...

Now that it is summertime, grilling takes priority over everything else...well, at least in my life (ha ha)! But eating juicy burgers and ball park franks everyday is a recipe for health disasters! When it comes to burgers, I usually prefer a cheeseburger in its most classic form. Recently, I discovered a turkey burger that has the same juiciness as a cheeseburger with AMAZING flavor! You have to try this recipe the next time you grill.

*NOTE: the jalapeno flavor is not too strong so don't fear the spiciness! *

Southwest Turkey Burgers (from Martha Stewart)

• 1 1/2 pounds ground dark meat turkey (93% lean)
• 1 jalapeno chile minced (ribs and seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
• 2 ounces grated Monterey Jack cheese (about 1/2 cup)
• 1/4 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Coarse salt and ground pepper
• Vegetable oil for grates
• 4 hamburger buns split horizontally
• Desired toppings

Directions

1. Heat grill to medium-high. In a medium bowl, place turkey, jalapeno, cheese, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon coarse salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix very gently with a fork to combine, being careful not to overwork meat (which would make burgers dense).
2. Gently form meat into 4 equal-size patties, 4 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Press thumb in the center of each patty to make an indentation approximately 1/2-inch deep (this helps keep burgers flat during grilling).
3. Moisten a folded paper towel with oil; grasp with tongs and rub over grates. Season burgers with salt and pepper; grill until cooked throughout, 5 to 8 minutes per side. Serve on buns (toasted on grill, if you like), with desired toppings.
   
   
   
   
   
   I have grilled these burgers a few times and so far I have learned that the vegetable oil on the grill is necessary! Also, pack in more cheese than the recipe calls for. It makes the burgers a bit more juicy. When you go to mix the ingredients, I use my hands (clean, of course!) because it is a lot easier than using a fork. 
   Top these babies off with your regular toppings like ketchup, mustard, pickle, and lettuce...or try something Southwestern like avocado, red onion, tomato, cilantro, and peppers. Basically top it off with whatever floats your boat!
   
   
   Enjoy!