We combine the best Italian appetizer with a classic American burger in this meal that practically shouts summer. Our members loved this combination so much last summer that we couldn’t resist bringing it back.
Make vinaigrette - Whisk together vinegar, maple syrup, mustard and oil. Season to taste with some salt and pepper. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Season beef - Mix soy sauce, garlic powder and pepper into ground beef and then form into 0.5” / 1.3cm thick patties and press thumb into center of the patty, forming a little crater. (Can be done 1 day ahead)
Strawberries - Slice strawberries. (Can be done up to 2 days ahead)
Mozzarella / Tomatoes / Basil leaves - Prep as directed.
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Give patties a light sprinkle of salt right before grilling.
If cooking on a grill: Heat up grill to 500F. Brush grates with some oil and then grill patties for 2 minutes on each side over direct heat (i.e., over the flames). Then move patties to indirect heat, close the grill and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes for medium-rare, 3 to 4 minutes for medium, and 5 to 6 minutes for well-done. Buns can be toasted on the grill at the same time (~2 minutes on the hot grill should do).
If cooking on stovetop: Heat up a grill pan to high heat. Brush with some oil, and then grill patties for 2 minutes on each side. Then lower heat to medium and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes for medium-rare, 3 to 4 minutes for medium, and 5 to 6 minutes for well-done. Toast buns on the grill pan at the same time if there is room or wait till after patties are done (~2 minutes on the hot pan should do).
Place patties onto bottom buns. Top with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and tomatoes. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (it’s best to pour into a spoon and then drizzle from spoon). Close burgers with the top bun.
Toss vinaigrette with baby spinach, strawberries, blueberries and almonds and enjoy with warm burger.