Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers are juicy and full of bold flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and oregano. Topped with a tangy lemon dill yogurt sauce, they’re packed with protein, greens, and healthy fats, a vibrant, balanced option that fits beautifully within a Mediterranean-style diet.

Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• ½ tablespoon lemon juice

• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder

• ⅛ teaspoon dill (fresh or dried)

• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Stir all ingredients together until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Turkey Burger Ingredients

• 19 oz ground turkey

• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• ¼ cup red onion, minced

• 2 oz spinach (fresh or frozen)

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided for cooking)

• 4–5 hamburger buns or lettuce wraps

Optional toppings:

• Sliced cucumber

• Sliced red onion

• Lettuce leaves (if skipping the bun)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach

• Frozen spinach: Thaw and squeeze out excess moisture. You’ll need about ¼ cup once drained.

• Fresh spinach: Finely chop. Optionally, sauté briefly to reduce moisture. Aim for ¼ cup once cooked.

2. Make the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:

• Ground turkey

• Sun-dried tomatoes

• Minced red onion

• Feta cheese

• Prepared spinach

• Oregano, garlic powder, and salt

Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

3. Shape the Patties
Form the mixture into 5 burger patties. Flatten slightly, as they will shrink during cooking.

4. Cook the Burgers

• Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Cook patties in batches, about 5–7 minutes per side, until browned and fully cooked.

• Use remaining oil for the next batch if needed.

5. Assemble and Serve
Spread the lemon dill yogurt sauce on the bun or lettuce wrap.
Add a turkey patty, followed by cucumber slices and red onion.
Serve warm and enjoy.

These burgers are perfect for meal prep, grilling season, or whenever you're craving something fresh and satisfying. Enjoy!

About the Author: Ashley Chang is a third year naturopathic medical student at Bastyr University.