Forget about the ho-hum burgers you typically throw on the grill during your summer BBQs. The following recipes provide you with simple ways you can kick up your next burger bonanza with mouthwatering versions of the summertime classic.
The first burger features prepared polenta and a host of other tantalizing fresh ingredients such as basil, tomatoes and mozzarella cheese to create a hearty layer of flavors typically found in Caprese salad.
The second recipe honors south of the border roots by featuring a cheese blend normally reserved for tacos and other Mexican-themed dishes. Cumin and fresh tomatoes round out the dish that is sure to put a zing in your traditional backyard cookout.
POLENTA BURGERS
Ingredients:
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
2/3 cup balsamic vinegar
1 package (16 to 18 ounces) refrigerated prepared polenta, cut into 8 slices
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper
1 package (8 ounces) fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 slices
2 medium tomatoes, cut into 4 slices each
Thinly sliced fresh basil
Directions:
Bring balsamic vinegar to a boil in 2-quart saucepan. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 9 to 10 minutes or until reduced to 1/3 cup. Set aside.
Shape ground beef into eight 1/2-inch thick patties.
Brush polenta slices with oil. Place patties in center of grill and arrange polenta around patties.
Grill patties and polenta, uncovered, 11 to 12 minutes or until hamburgers are not pink in center and polenta is heated through. Turn once and baste patties with balsamic vinegar reduction.
Season burgers with salt and pepper.
Open bun and layer polenta slice, burger, mozzarella slice and tomato slice then drizzle with remaining balsamic vinegar and top with basil.
MEXICAN CHEESEBURGER
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper
4 hamburger buns, split, toasted
1/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup chopped tomato
Directions:
Combine ground beef, green onions and cumin in medium bowl, mixing thoroughly.
Shape into four 1/2-inch thick patties.
Place patties on medium-hot grill and cook uncovered, 11 to 13 minutes until no longer pink in center.
Season with salt and pepper.
Place burger on bottom of each bun; top with cheese and tomato.
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