Turkey burgers with crispy leaves and an avocado salsa.
Turkey is a lean meat which is high in protein and very low in fat which is great for weight loss. Turkey contains the amino acid tryptophan which makes the neurotransmitter, serotonin, in the body. It is also a good source of selenium which plays a vital role in thyroid function and immunity as well as helping to strengthen teeth, nails and hair.
This a great recipe as it adds lots of flavour and texture to what can be a bland and tasteless food.
Serves 2
Ingredients:
350g turkey mince
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 spring onions, finely chopped
1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
A handful of coriander, chopped (please use the stalks as well as they are packed with flavour)
1 egg yolk
2 little gem lettuces, washed and dried
Avocado salsa:
1 ripe avocado
Juice and zest of 1 lime
½ red onion, finely chopped
1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
1 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and pepper
Method:
Place the turkey mince in a bowl with the chopped onion, spring onion, chillis, coriander, salt and pepper. Add enough of the egg yolk to bind well. Shape into 4 patties and place on a plate lined with greaseproof paper. Chill until required.
Preheat the oven to 200ºC/400ºF/gas 6. Heat a nonstick pan with a little coconut oil and fry the turkey burgers for a couple of minutes on each side until well browned. Put onto a baking sheet lined with greaseproof and cook for 10-12 minutes (depending on thickness) until cooked through. However, be careful not to overcook as they will become dry and tough!
Make the avocado salsa - peel and roughly chop the avocado and put into a bowl with the remaining ingredients. Season well.
Remove the turkey burgers from the oven, and serve with the crispy leaves and avocado salsa. Yummy!
* If you want more of a kick to your avocado salsa, add a little tabasco sauce or cayenne pepper.
** The turkey mixture can be frozen - so why not double up the ingredients and then you have a meal prepared for another day.