Description
These Citrus-Herb Caprese Burgers combine the fresh flavors of lemon, basil, and oregano with juicy ground meat, topped with melted mozzarella, ripe tomato slices, and peppery arugula. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, these burgers offer a gourmet twist on a classic summer favorite that’s perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Assembly
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 fresh mozzarella slices
- 4 ripe tomato slices
- 4 burger buns
- 1 cup fresh arugula or basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef or turkey with lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round burger patty of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Heat the Cooking Surface: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush the grill grates or skillet with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a nice sear.
- Cook the Burgers: Place the patties on the heated surface and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Add the Mozzarella: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of fresh mozzarella on each patty and allow it to melt slightly for a creamy topping.
- Toast the Buns: While the cheese melts, optionally toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each cooked patty with melted mozzarella onto the bottom half of a bun. Top with a slice of ripe tomato and a handful of fresh arugula or basil leaves.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle each assembled burger with balsamic glaze, then cap with the top half of the bun. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute ground chicken for the beef or turkey.
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based burger patties instead of meat.
- For enhanced citrus flavor, add a small amount of orange zest along with the lemon zest.
- Balsamic glaze can be homemade or store-bought; adjust quantity to taste.
- To keep the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or serve without buns as lettuce wraps.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
