10 Creative (and Healthy!) Burger Recipes You Haven’t Thought of Yet
By Amy Schlinger
When it comes to burgers, we’ve each had our fair share of standard beef patties. Mix up your summer barbecue with healthier options that are as delicious as they are inventive. We rounded up our top 10 favorite recipes, from a vegetarian smoky black bean beet burger to a spicy Jamaican jerk version. Each one is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a cinch to make.
Easy Eggplant Burger
Calling all vegetarians! This eggplant patty will satisfy your craving for a burger. It’s so tasty, even meat eaters will be clamoring for seconds.
> Get the recipe.
Jamaican Jerk Veggie Burger
This recipe improves upon the basic veggie burger by adding island flavors: jerk spice, cinnamon, ginger, all spice and hot peppers. Cooling toppings like ginger lime slaw and avocado balance out the flavors.
> Get the recipe.
Vietnamese “Banh Mi” Chicken Burger
Breakfast for dinner? You’ll get a taste of that with this veggie patty, made from tofu, scallions and eggs. Enjoy the tangy Asian flavors of these pickled toppings—hitting your protein quota is just a bonus.
> Get the recipe.
Related: The Genius Trick for Perfect Scrambled Eggs
Quinoa Burger
Each of these superfood burgers clocks in at under 300 calories apiece. Plus: it’s protein-packed and delivers eight grams of fiber.
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Grilled Cauliflower “Steak” Burgers
You’ve had cauli steaks and roasted cauli. Now try grilling the head of each floret, then top with provolone cheese, Dijon mustard, mayo, onions and arugula. Whoever said cauliflower was bland?
> Get the recipe.
Avocado-Alfalfa Turkey Burger
This juicy turkey burger is topped with indulgent Monterey Jack cheese and avocado, then finished off with tomatoes and sprouts for a refreshing crunch. But the secret ingredient? A pomegranate-ketchup drizzle provides the perfect sweet-salty sauce.
> Get the recipe.
Smoky Black Bean Beet Burger
Who knew black beans and beets could be such a winning combo! These burgers, packed with quinoa and raw walnuts, are vegan and gluten-free to boot.
> Get the recipe.
Related: 10 Ways to Guarantee You Get Up for That A.M. Workout
Spicy Chicken Burger
Spicy chicken burger? Yes please! Plus, it’s topped with diced onions and sliced cucumber, which are coated in a refreshing yogurt and avocado mixture. Could it get any tastier?
> Get the recipe.
Zucchini Chickpea Burgers
Made from zucchini, chickpeas, quinoa and sunflower seeds, this burger patty also features a helping of wasabi mayo, edamame hummus, cucumbers and onions. Prepare for a flavor explosion.
> Get the recipe.
Mushroom Lentil Burger
Lentils, chickpeas and flaxseeds make up the bulk of this burger patty, while chili, cumin and spicy mustard provide the kick. It’s downright perfect for a #MeatlessMonday holiday cookout.
> Get the recipe.
(Photos: Amie Valpone; Claire Benoist (2); Kana Okada; Amie Valpone)
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