Burger Heaven

deliciously different, healthy burger recipes

I have the most joyous memories of going to a restaurant in Midtown Manhattan called Burger Heaven with my grandparents. Does anyone remember that place?

Well, I have loved a good burger for as long as I can remember —the classic beef kind, a well-crafted veggie burger, turkey burger or salmon burger— any tasty patty on a bun does the trick for me. Here are a few better-for-you burger recipes that are pure burger heaven. Enjoy!

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Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki

Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post

These burgers are made with chopped fresh salmon seasoned with lemon, dill and mustard. They have a Greek flavor accent that is punctuated by an accompanying herb-flecked cucumber-yogurt sauce (tzatziki). Serve them on burger buns, in pita pockets, over green salad or in lettuce wraps for a deliciously different and healthful way to escape from a basic-burger or same-old-grilled-salmon rut.

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Antipasto-Stuffed Turkey Burgers

Photo by Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post

This juicy burger is an antidote to the typical uninspired, dry turkey patty. By stuffing the lean meat with flavorful antipasto vegetables— olives, roasted peppers, artichokes, marinated mushrooms, whatever you have on hand— you add volume, flavor and nutrition — plus, a little cheese in the center lends a luxe, melty quality. Serve on buns or in lettuce wraps as pictured.

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Shrimp Burgers With Kimchi

Photo by Tom McCorkle and food styling by Lisa Cherkasky for The Washington Post

These plump, flavor-packed burgers show off one of shrimp’s lesser-known assets: When ground, it becomes sticky and easily forms into a patty shape without any egg or bread crumbs, as needed for other fish cakes. Seasoned with aromatic ginger, scallion, kimchi (any variety will work), and a generous handful of fresh cilantro, the shrimp burgers deliver a big flavor punch with few ingredients.

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