Mediterranean Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki

Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and health-conscious approach to cooking. From the sun-kissed shores of Greece to the bustling markets of Morocco, Mediterranean dishes are often characterized by their use of aromatic herbs, colorful vegetables, and wholesome proteins. Among the stars of this culinary tradition is lamb, a rich and flavorful meat that has been a staple in Mediterranean diets for centuries. Its unique taste and tender texture make it an excellent choice for a variety of dishes, including the mouthwatering Mediterranean Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki.

Mediterranean Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki

Elevate your dinner game with these Mediterranean Lamb Burgers paired with zesty homemade tzatziki. This recipe combines the richness of ground lamb with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, creating a flavorful twist on a classic burger. The cooling tzatziki adds a refreshing touch, making each bite a delightful experience. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals, these burgers are easy to prepare and packed with health benefits. Impress your family and friends with this vibrant dish tonight!

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Ingredients

For the Lamb Burgers:

1 lb ground lamb

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 medium cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve:

Warm pita bread or toasted burger buns

Sliced tomatoes

Sliced red onion

Fresh lettuce or peppery arugula

Instructions

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible), minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Make the Lamb Burger Mixture:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat), salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.

- With clean hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture, which can make the burgers tough.

Form the Patties:

- Divide the lamb mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty approximately 3/4 inch thick. Use your thumb to create a slight indentation in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up during cooking.

Cook the Burgers:

- In a large skillet or on a grill, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the lamb patties.

- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish, or until they reach your preferred doneness. For precise results, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.

Prepare to Serve:

- While the burgers are cooking, slice your pita bread or burger buns, and arrange the sliced tomatoes, red onion, and greens on a platter for easy assembly.

Assemble the Burgers:

- On the bottom half of each pita or bun, generously spread a layer of tzatziki sauce. Place a hot lamb burger on top, followed by slices of fresh tomato, red onion, and your choice of lettuce or arugula. For an extra burst of flavor, add more tzatziki on top, then cap with the top half of the pita or bun.

Serve:

- Serve the burgers immediately while they are piping hot, with extra tzatziki on the side for dipping. Enjoy the vibrant and fresh flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired dish!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings