Introduction
Craving a burger that’s a step above the ordinary? Look no further than the Greek Lamb Burger with Feta and Cucumber Tzatziki. This recipe combines the savory richness of ground lamb with the salty tang of feta cheese and the cool, refreshing zip of homemade tzatziki sauce. It’s a Mediterranean feast packed into every delicious bite!
Not only is this burger incredibly flavorful, but it’s also a fantastic option for a weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue. Forget the boring beef – lamb brings a unique depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
Making the Greek Lamb Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these fresh, flavorful ingredients to create the ultimate Greek Lamb Burger:
- 1.5 lbs Ground Lamb
- 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/4 cup Finely Chopped Red Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
- 1 tsp Dried Mint
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 4 Burger Buns (Brioche or Sesame work well)
- Olive Oil, for grilling
Preparing the Lamb Patties
Follow these simple steps for perfectly seasoned lamb patties:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground lamb, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, oregano, mint, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
- Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Grilling the Lamb Burgers
Achieving that perfect char and juicy interior is key:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the lamb burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- In the last minute of cooking, add extra crumbled feta cheese on top of the patties to melt slightly.
Crafting the Cucumber Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki Ingredients
This homemade tzatziki sauce is the perfect cool and creamy complement to the savory lamb:
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup Cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Making the Tzatziki
This easy tzatziki recipe comes together in minutes:
- Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery.
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
Assembling the Greek Lamb Burger
Toppings & Serving Suggestions
Now for the fun part – creating the perfect burger!
- Lightly toast the burger buns.
- Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce on both halves of the buns.
- Place a grilled lamb patty on the bottom bun.
- Add your favorite toppings: sliced tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, or even grilled bell peppers.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Complete your Greek feast with these delicious sides:
- Greek Salad
- Roasted Lemon Potatoes
- Grilled Asparagus
- Hummus and Pita Bread
Conclusion
The Greek Lamb Burger with Feta and Cucumber Tzatziki is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its blend of savory lamb, tangy feta, and refreshing tzatziki, this burger is a flavorful adventure you won’t soon forget. So fire up the grill and get ready to experience the taste of the Mediterranean, one delicious bite at a time! This recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional beef burgers and is perfect for those looking to add some variety to their meal plan.
