Try These Easy Summer Burger Recipe Alternatives At your Next Cookout

By Kim Dow

Ah, summer. The time for surf, sun, sand… and cookouts! I’ve been a burger girl my whole life (no, really, ask my parents, one of my favorite meals is, and has always been, a hamburger (ketchup only) and fries.) But as I’ve gotten ~~older~~ wiser, I’ve branched out to try all kinds of “burgers”. So, if you’re looking for something a little different, but still completely delicious, try one of these summer burger recipes as a hamburger alternative at your next summer cookout.

1. Greek-Style Lamb Burger

(Hey, I’m Greek, what can I say, of course this is your first option!) A lamb burger covered with cool, fresh, homemade Tzatziki sauce is, simply put, amazing. Plus, even though it sounds fancy, this burger is super easy to make! You can usually find ground lamb in most grocery stores, at a local farmer’s market, even Costco carries it. Sprinkle some crumbled feta on top…mmmm, mouth watering. Check out either of these two recipes:
Mediterranean Lamb Burger
Tzatziki Lamb Burger

2. Vegetarian Portabella Burger

Going for a meatless dinner doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the flavor! Plus, you can still get some protein in with this much healthier meat-free option. Add some grilled red peppers, arugula, and either mozarella or goat cheese to the top, and you’ve got one amazing burger on your hands. (No, literally, if you’ve marinaded your portobello (or, portabella if you prefer the double “a” spelling) with some balsamic vinegar, you will have it dripping over your hands…so good!) Try one of these easy recipes:
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Vegan Portabella Mushroom Burger

3. Tasty Turkey Burgers

I’ll admit that for the longest time, I wasn’t a fan of the turkey burger. But, it was only because I hadn’t tried the right recipe! Combining your ground turkey with another juicier ingredient, like apples, zucchini or avocado, will add to the flavor and help to keep your burger nice and juicy. Again, ground turkey (or chicken) can easily be found in most grocery stores. Try one of these recipes at your next cookout:
Green Goddess Turkey Burger
Avocado Turkey Burger

4. Black Bean Burgers

Another great meat-free burger option for you to try! Spice things up a bit and add some chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor or jalapeno peppers for a nice spicy taste! It’s easy to make these burgers as a vegan option as well. Here’s a few options to try:
Cilantro Lime Black Bean Burgers
Black Bean Burgers with Pineapple Salsa

Now, don’t get me wrong, there is always a special place in my heart for a regular ol’ hamburger, too! The great thing about any of these summer burger recipes is that you can make them tailored specifically to your taste buds! Try adding some traditional toppings…bacon, lettuce, tomato, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayo. OR, try adding something different to your burger to spice things up a bit, such as avocado, egg, pineapple, sriracha, or, even peanut butter (yeah, we’re not too sure about this one either).

Have more great summer burger recipes? Share them with us here!

Kim Dow

Kim is the owner and publisher of Sass Magazine, as well as the owner of Sass Studios, a boutique graphic design studio in Frederick, MD. When not in the office, Kim can be found doing some of her favorite hobbies—reading a book, dancing, traveling, or playing with her rescued pitbull.