A Healthy Take on Burgers

You need not use meat substitutes or tofu for a healthier burger. With a few changes in ingredients, you can have healthier and authentic-tasting burgers as proven by this Martha Stewart recipe. It is leaner, full of fiber, and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Grilled Burgers and Vegetables on a Bun

Burgers
2 lbs lean ground beef or turkey
1 cup minced basil leaves
1 fresh red chili pepper, minced
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
salt to taste

Vegetables
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 large green zucchini, cut into 1-inch-thick slices
2 medium tomatoes, preferably heirloom or orange, cut into 1-inch-thick slices
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt

Toasted whole-wheat buns

1. Preheat grill. Combine ingredients for burgers in a mixing bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
2. Marinate vegetables in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and vinegar.
3. Divide burger mixture into eight and form a patty with each portion. Grill burgers for two minutes on each side.
4. Grill vegetables until browned on all sides.
5. Assemble burgers by placing a patty on a toasted bun and topping it with grilled vegetables.

Author: Kristine Gonzaga