Spicy Turkey and Zucchini Burger Recipe
A flavorful and healthy Spicy Turkey and Zucchini Burger recipe featuring ground turkey mixed with fresh herbs and grated zucchini, seasoned with a blend of spices, and served with a tangy sour cream and Greek yogurt sauce. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal with a spicy kick.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 burgers 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey meat
- Just under 2 cups, lightly packed, coarsely grated zucchini (from about 2 to 3 small zucchinis or one medium zucchini)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced, onion greens included
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint (spearmint)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (tender stems included)
- 1 clove garlic, crushed and minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sour Cream Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- Make the Sour Cream Sauce: In a bowl, combine the sour cream, Greek yogurt, grated lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed. Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Turkey and Zucchini Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the coarsely grated zucchini, thinly sliced green onions, chopped fresh mint, chopped fresh cilantro including tender stems, and crushed minced garlic. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix all ingredients well to evenly distribute the spices and herbs throughout the mixture.
- Combine with Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey meat to the vegetable and spice mixture. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the grated zucchini and all seasonings are fully incorporated into the turkey for a consistent texture and flavor.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into evenly sized portions and shape them into burger patties, about 4 to 6 depending on preferred size. Make sure patties are compact but not overly compressed to maintain tenderness.
- Cook the Patties: Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties carefully. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the patties are golden brown on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with the chilled sour cream sauce either on the side or spread on buns if desired. Enjoy your spicy turkey and zucchini burgers as a healthy and delicious meal option.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini with a clean kitchen towel to prevent soggy patties.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount according to your preferred spice level.
- These patties cook well on the stovetop but can also be grilled if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free option, serve without buns or use gluten-free buns.
Keywords: spicy turkey burger, zucchini burger, healthy burger, low fat burger, ground turkey recipe, homemade burger patties