A Turkey Burgers with Brussels Salad usually features ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef, making it appealing for those looking for a lighter option. It can be seasoned with a blend of autumnal spices like sage, thyme, and a hint of nutmeg or allspice, echoing the flavors of the season.
The accompanying Brussels Sprouts Salad adds a crispy and earthy complement to the juicy burger. Brussels sprouts are a quintessential fall vegetable, and when shredded and tossed in a salad, they provide a crunchy texture along with a slightly nutty flavor. The salad may include additions like dried cranberries for sweetness, walnuts for crunch, and perhaps a vinaigrette dressing with apple cider vinegar to tie in the autumn theme.
Pairing the burgers with toasted buns that have a hint of whole grain or a rustic texture can elevate the dish, combining well with the tenderness of the turkey. Keeping with the fall spirit, a spread such as spiced pumpkin mayonnaise or a cranberry relish can be used to offer an additional layer of intrigue and festivity to the burger.
Fall Turkey Burgers with Brussels Salad Recipe
Fall Turkey Burgers with Brussels Salad
Equipment
- 1 large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chopped Brussels sprout leaves
- 1/4 cup dried unsweetened cranberries
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 small shallot diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Instructions
- Heat grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, mix the turkey with the salt and pepper and garlic powder.
- Form meat mixture into patties and place on the grill.
- Cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, until turkey is no longer pink in the center.
- In a large bowl, toss together the remaining ingredients with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Tips for making about Fall Turkey Burgers with Brussels Salad
Cooking tips
- Burger Seasoning:
- Enhance ground turkey with a blend of seasonal spices like sage, thyme, and optional hints of nutmeg or allspice, which will complement the natural flavors of the meat and bring out the essence of fall.
- Burger Cooking:
- Since turkey is a lean meat, be careful not to overcook your burgers to prevent them from becoming too dry. Aim for well-done but still juicy by using medium heat and not pressing down on the burgers while they cook, as this can squeeze out the moisture.
- Burger Binding:
- If the ground turkey mixture is too wet or not holding together, consider adding breadcrumbs or a beaten egg to the mix, which can help bind the ingredients.
- Salad Preparation:
- For the Brussels Sprouts Salad, shred the sprouts finely for a slaw-like texture, which allows them to absorb more dressing and makes for easier eating.
- Salad Flavor Balance:
- Add dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness, walnuts for a bit of crunch, and perhaps some shredded cheese for richness. These ingredients together create a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
Serving suggestions
- Whole Grain Buns: Opt for a hearty whole grain bun that can stand up to the juiciness of the burger and complement the autumn spices. Toast the buns gently to add a bit of warmth and crispness.
- Seasonal Spreads: Elevate the burgers with spreads like spiced pumpkin mayonnaise or cranberry relish. These offer a burst of festive flavors that marry well with the turkey patties.
- Cheese Topping: A slice of gooey melted cheese, such as Swiss or Gouda, perfectly crowns the burger, providing a comforting richness that rounds off the spiced meat.
- Sides: Pair your burger with the shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad tossed with dried cranberries, walnuts, and maybe a little cheese for an extra layer of flavor. The crunch and nuttiness of these ingredients make a delightful contrast to the burger.
- Dressing: Drizzle a homemade vinaigrette over the salad, perhaps incorporating apple cider vinegar to keep in line with the fall theme. The tangy and slightly sweet notes bring a fresh balance to the palate.
- Beverage Pairings: For beverages, consider a seasonal craft beer, such as a pumpkin ale or an Oktoberfest lager, that complements the spices in the burger. If you prefer wine, a medium-bodied red like a Zinfandel or a Pinot Noir can be a lovely match.
- Sweet Finish: And if you’d like to end the meal on a sweet note, you could offer a small dessert of baked apples or a pumpkin spice treat to keep the autumnal spirit alive.
Top 5 FAQs about Fall Turkey Burgers with Brussels Salad
- What makes Fall Turkey Burgers different from regular turkey burgers? Fall Turkey Burgers feature a blend of autumnal spices like sage, thyme, and a hint of nutmeg or allspice which complement the natural flavors of the turkey and evoke the season’s essence.
- How can I prevent my turkey burgers from being too dry? Since turkey is leaner than beef, it’s important not to overcook the burgers. Use medium heat and avoid pressing down on them while cooking to keep them juicy. Adding a binding agent like breadcrumbs or egg can also help retain moisture.
- What are some creative topping ideas for Fall Turkey Burgers? To enhance your Fall Turkey Burger, consider using spreads such as spiced pumpkin mayonnaise or cranberry relish. You can also add a slice of melted cheese like Swiss or Gouda for extra flavor.
- How should I prepare and dress the Brussels Sprouts Salad? Shred the Brussels sprouts finely, toss with dried cranberries, walnuts, and optional shredded cheese for a balanced flavor and texture. Dress the salad with a homemade apple cider vinegar-based vinaigrette to align with the fall theme.
- Any serving suggestions to make the meal more autumnal? Serve the burger on a whole grain or rustic bun, lightly toasted. The salad can be served alongside the burger as a crisp contrast. For beverages, consider a seasonal craft beer or a medium-bodied red wine like a Zinfandel or Pinot Noir. If looking for a sweet finish, consider dessert options like baked apples or a pumpkin spice treat.
In conclusion, Fall Turkey Burgers with Brussels Salad embody the spirit of the season through their thoughtful combination of ingredients and flavors. The turkey burgers are a lean yet satisfying centerpiece, infused with the warm, aromatic spices of autumn that evoke cozy feelings of the harvest season. Complemented by a shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad that offers crispness and a bounty of flavors from ingredients like dried cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, this meal is a celebration of fall on a plate.