If you’re craving a burger that brings vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients together, the Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. This recipe combines lean ground turkey packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and tangy feta cheese, all kissed with aromatic oregano and garlic powder. Topped with a refreshing lemon dill yogurt sauce, these burgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a wholesome meal that feels special yet easy to prepare anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a creamy white sauce that has a smooth texture. On the surface, there is a sprinkle of finely chopped green herbs spread evenly, and a swirl of golden yellow oil is gently mixed in with the sauce. A silver spoon is placed in the bowl, slightly dipping into the sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the succulent turkey to zesty lemon and creamy feta, these simple components come together in a way that’s as delightful as it is straightforward.

  • Ground turkey (19 oz.): The lean and tender base that makes these burgers healthier without sacrificing juiciness.
  • Sun dried tomatoes (1/4 cup): Adds a burst of concentrated sweetness and chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the turkey.
  • Minced red onion (1/4 cup): Gives a sharp, savory bite and lovely color.
  • Frozen spinach (2 oz.): Thawed and squeezed dry, it brings an earthy freshness and vibrant green hue.
  • Crumbled feta (1/4 cup): Delivers a creamy saltiness that elevates every bite.
  • Dried oregano (1 tsp): A fragrant herb that conjures classic Mediterranean flavors.
  • Garlic powder (1/4 tsp for burgers, 1/8 tsp for sauce): Infuses subtle pungency and warmth without overpowering.
  • Salt (1/4 tsp for burgers, 1/8 tsp for sauce): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
  • Cooking oil (1 Tbsp): For perfectly searing the patties to golden-brown goodness.
  • Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): The creamy base for the bright lemon dill yogurt sauce.
  • Lemon juice (1/2 Tbsp): Adds zesty freshness and a hint of tang that brightens the sauce.
  • Dried dill (1/8 tsp): Provides a delicate herbal note that pairs beautifully with lemon and yogurt.

How to Make Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Make the Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce

Start by whisking together the plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, and salt in a small bowl. This sauce is the refreshing highlight of the recipe, offering a creamy, tangy accompaniment that complements the savory turkey burgers perfectly. Once mixed, pop it into the fridge to chill while you prepare the burgers.

Step 2: Prepare the Burger Ingredients

Next, gather the add-ins that give these turkey burgers their signature Mediterranean flair. Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes, mince the red onion, crumble the feta cheese, and thaw the frozen spinach. Be sure to squeeze out all the moisture from the spinach to avoid soggy patties. This step ensures every ingredient is ready to mix evenly into the turkey, maximizing flavor in each bite.

Step 3: Mix the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the sun dried tomatoes, minced onion, crumbled feta, spinach, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently but thoroughly, just until every ingredient is well distributed. Overmixing can make the burgers tough, so keep it light and consistent.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

Divide the turkey mixture into five equal portions and shape each into a patty. Make sure they are flatter and wider than your typical burger because they will shrink slightly as they cook. This sizing results in a perfect juicy texture and quick, even cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Burgers

Warm half a tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. When hot, add three patties and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. Use the remaining oil to cook the last two patties. This method gives you burgers with a lovely crust and tender center every time.

How to Serve Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

A close-up of a sandwich with a shiny golden brown bun on the top and bottom. Inside, there are two thick slices of dark green cucumber directly under the top bun, followed by a few thin rings of purple onion. Under the onions is a thick, juicy patty with a mixed texture showing bits of red, green, and brown, sitting on the bottom bun. The sandwich is placed on a white plate lined with paper that looks like old newspaper, and the background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe even further, top them off with fresh cucumber slices and more thinly sliced red onion. The crisp texture and cool flavors balance the richness of the turkey and creamy sauce, creating a dynamic and crowd-pleasing bite.

Side Dishes

Serve these flavorful burgers alongside light, fresh sides like a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy sweet potato fries. These accompaniments enhance the Mediterranean theme while adding variety in texture and color to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Try serving the patties wrapped in warm flatbreads or pita pockets instead of buns for a fun twist. Drizzle extra lemon dill yogurt sauce on top or layer the burger with grilled zucchini and olives for an impressive gourmet touch that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the yogurt sauce separate to maintain its fresh taste and texture until you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these turkey patties freeze beautifully. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, making meal prep even easier.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the patties overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through. Rewarm the sauce separately and add it fresh right before serving to keep that vibrant lemon and dill flavor bright.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach works great but be sure to chop it finely and sauté lightly to reduce moisture before mixing it into the turkey. This will prevent the patties from becoming too wet and help maintain their structure while cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free buns or serve the burgers wrapped in lettuce or gluten-free flatbread. Always check your ingredients, especially any store-bought components, to be sure.

How can I add more spice to this recipe?

If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture. You can also stir some crushed red pepper flakes into the yogurt sauce for a spicy, tangy kick.

What’s the best way to prevent the burgers from drying out?

Mixing in ingredients like sun dried tomatoes, feta, and spinach not only adds flavor but also helps retain moisture. Avoid overcooking, and cook the patties over medium heat to achieve a juicy interior with a nicely browned surface.

Can these burgers be cooked on a grill?

Yes, grilling is an excellent option! Just oil the grill grates well and cook the patties over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side. This method adds a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon dill yogurt sauce.

Final Thoughts

These Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe have quickly become one of my absolute favorites for their bright flavors, healthy ingredients, and speedy preparation. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this recipe brings a fresh, satisfying twist on the classic burger that everyone will love. Give it a try and watch how easily a simple meal can become a memorable culinary experience!

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Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Mediterranean Turkey Burgers with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 39 reviews
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These Mediterranean Turkey Burgers are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic burgers, featuring sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese mixed into lean ground turkey. Served with a refreshing lemon dill yogurt sauce, these burgers are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.


Ingredients

Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/8 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/8 tsp dried dill
  • 1/8 tsp salt

Turkey Burgers

  • 19 oz ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup minced red onion
  • 2 oz frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry to 1/4 cup)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 Tbsp cooking oil (divided)


Instructions

  1. Make Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, and salt. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve to let the flavors meld.
  2. Prepare Burger Mix-Ins: Finely chop the sun dried tomatoes, mince the red onion, crumble the feta cheese, and thaw the frozen spinach. Once thawed, squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach so it measures about 1/4 cup.
  3. Mix Burger Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sun dried tomatoes, minced red onion, crumbled feta, spinach, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly without overworking the meat.
  4. Form Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into five equal parts. Shape each portion into a patty, making them flatter and wider than usual to account for shrinkage during cooking.
  5. Cook the Burgers: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add three patties and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove and repeat with the remaining oil and patties.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Spread a generous amount of lemon dill yogurt sauce on the bottom half of a bun. Place a cooked turkey burger on top, add sliced cucumber and sliced red onion if desired, then top with the bun and enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean turkey burger.

Notes

  • To ensure burgers stay juicy, avoid overmixing the turkey when combining ingredients.
  • Frozen spinach must be well drained to prevent soggy burgers.
  • You can serve the burgers with your choice of fresh salad or side for a complete meal.
  • Storing leftover sauce separately keeps the bun from becoming soggy if preparing ahead.
  • If sun dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them before chopping to avoid excess moisture.

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