5 Gourmet Burger Recipes With Arugula for a Peppery Kick

Bite into gourmet burgers featuring arugula for a peppery kick—discover five unique recipes that will transform your cookout experience!

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You might think burgers are just about meat and cheese, but incorporating arugula can elevate your experience. This peppery green not only adds flavor but also a rejuvenating crunch. Imagine sinking your teeth into a burger that's not only satisfying but also offers a gourmet twist. Let's explore five unique recipes that showcase arugula in delightful ways, ensuring your next cookout stands out.

Key Takeaways

  • Arugula and Goat Cheese Burger features crumbled goat cheese and fresh arugula on a toasted brioche bun, enhanced with garlic and onion powder in the beef mix.
  • Spicy Chipotle Arugula Burger combines minced chipotle peppers and creamy chipotle mayo, topped with avocado and fresh arugula for a spicy, flavorful bite.
  • Mediterranean Lamb Burger With Arugula includes seasoned ground lamb, topped with yogurt sauce, cucumber, tomato, and fresh arugula for a unique twist.
  • Balsamic Glazed Portobello Mushroom Burger offers a vegetarian option with marinated portobello mushrooms, grilled and topped with arugula for a satisfying crunch.
  • Customize any burger with olive oil-tossed arugula and explore additional toppings like roasted tomatoes, pickled onions, or various cheeses for enhanced flavor.

Arugula and Goat Cheese Burger

arugula goat cheese burger

To enhance the flavors, we recommend using high-quality ground beef, preferably 80/20 for the perfect balance of lean meat and fat. The addition of garlic powder and onion powder in the meat mixture elevates the taste, while the toasted brioche bun adds a buttery touch.

Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or simply craving a delicious homemade burger, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 4 brioche buns
  • Olive oil, for grilling
  • Optional: balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Cooking Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Form the mixture into four patties, making a small indentation in the center of each to prevent them from puffing up while grilling.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly brush the grate with olive oil.

Grill the patties for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

In the last minute of cooking, place the crumbled goat cheese on top of each patty to allow it to soften slightly.

While the burgers are cooking, you can toast the brioche buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until they're golden brown.

Assemble your burgers by placing a patty on each bun, topping it generously with fresh arugula, and drizzling with balsamic glaze if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy your gourmet creation!

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider marinating the patties in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for a few hours before grilling.

You can also experiment with different toppings, such as sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers, to customize your burger to your liking.

Remember to let the patties rest for a couple of minutes after grilling to retain their juices, ensuring that every bite is as juicy and flavorful as possible.

Spicy Chipotle Arugula Burger

spicy arugula chipotle burger

The Spicy Chipotle Arugula Burger is a bold and flavorful twist on the classic burger, perfect for those who crave a kick in their meal. This delicious recipe combines the earthiness of arugula with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, resulting in a burger that's both satisfying and invigorating.

With the right balance of spices and toppings, this burger will be a hit at your next barbecue or family dinner. To elevate this burger experience, we'll add a creamy chipotle mayo and fresh toppings that complement the spicy patty. Served on a toasted bun, the combination of textures and flavors will tantalize your taste buds.

Prepare to impress your guests with this gourmet creation that's sure to be a standout dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 cup fresh arugula
  • 1 large avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • Olive oil for toasting buns

Cooking Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced chipotle peppers, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly.

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat, adding a bit of olive oil if using a skillet. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium doneness, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level.

While the burgers are cooking, mix the mayonnaise and lime juice in a small bowl to create a creamy chipotle mayo. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.

Extra Tips:

For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the ground beef for a few hours with the chipotle and spices before forming the patties. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Additionally, feel free to customize your toppings; sliced jalapeños or pickled onions would enhance the spice level even further. Enjoy your Spicy Chipotle Arugula Burger with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Mediterranean Lamb Burger With Arugula

mediterranean flavored lamb burger

This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike. With a few key ingredients and straightforward techniques, you'll create a burger that's bursting with flavor and sophistication.

Whether you're grilling for friends or enjoying a quiet evening in, the Mediterranean Lamb Burger is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground lamb
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 whole wheat burger buns
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sliced cucumber and tomato, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the ground lamb with minced garlic, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Form the mixture into four equal patties. Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the lamb patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F for medium doneness.

While the lamb burgers are cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the burgers are cooked, assemble them by placing each patty on a whole wheat bun, topping with fresh arugula, sliced cucumber, and tomato. Drizzle with the yogurt sauce before closing the burger.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavors even further, consider marinating the lamb mixture with fresh herbs like parsley or mint before forming the patties. This adds a revitalizing touch that complements the Mediterranean theme.

Additionally, for a smoky flavor, try grilling the burgers over charcoal or adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the meat mixture. Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Balsamic Glazed Portobello Mushroom Burger With Arugula

balsamic portobello mushroom burger

The Balsamic Glazed Portobello Mushroom Burger is a delicious and hearty vegetarian option that packs a punch of flavor. The savory umami of grilled portobello mushrooms pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, creating a mouthwatering experience.

Topped with fresh arugula, this burger not only satisfies your hunger but also adds a revitalizing crunch that complements the richness of the mushrooms. This burger is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home.

It's simple to prepare and can be served on a toasted bun or on a bed of greens for a low-carb alternative. With the right balance of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet burger that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 whole grain burger buns
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • Optional: sliced tomatoes and red onion for topping

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by marinating the portobello mushrooms in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let them soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, place the marinated mushrooms on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until tender and juicy.

While the mushrooms are grilling, you can toast the burger buns on the grill for a few minutes until they're golden brown. Once everything is ready, assemble the burgers by placing the grilled mushrooms on the toasted buns, topping them with fresh arugula, and any additional toppings you desire, such as sliced tomatoes and red onions.

Extra Tips:

For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the mushrooms during the last minute of grilling. This will melt the cheese slightly, creating a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the balsamic glaze.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings or sauces, such as pesto or hummus, to customize your burger to your taste. Enjoy!

Classic Beef Burger With Arugula and Parmesan

beef burger with arugula

To achieve the best flavor and texture, choose high-quality ground beef with a good fat content, ideally 80/20. The fat will keep the burger juicy during cooking, while the fresh ingredients create a flavorful topping that complements the beef.

Whether you grill, pan-sear, or broil, this burger will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 burger buns
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: mayonnaise or aioli for spreading

Cooking Instructions:

Start by preheating your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. While it's heating, form the ground beef into four equal patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.

Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Once the grill is hot, place the patties on it and cook for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, you can place the burger buns on the grill to toast lightly.

After removing the burgers from the grill, let them rest for a couple of minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the toppings by tossing the fresh arugula in olive oil, and then assemble your burger by layering the arugula and shaved Parmesan on top of each patty.

If desired, spread a layer of mayonnaise or aioli on the buns before closing the burger.

Extra Tips:

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef before forming the patties. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or additional toppings like roasted tomatoes or pickled onions to customize your burger.

Remember to let your burgers rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bite. Enjoy your gourmet creation!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Health Benefits of Arugula in Burgers?

When you add arugula to your burger, you're not just enhancing flavor; you're boosting nutrition. This leafy green's rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, promoting heart health and aiding digestion. It's a win-win!

Can I Substitute Arugula With Other Greens?

Absolutely, you can substitute arugula with other greens like spinach, kale, or mixed salad greens. Each brings a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find what you enjoy most in your burgers!

How Do I Store Leftover Arugula?

To store leftover arugula, wash and dry it thoroughly, then place it in a sealed container lined with a paper towel. Keep it in the fridge, and it'll stay fresh for about three to five days.

What Type of Cheese Pairs Best With Arugula?

You'd think creamy blue cheese clashes with arugula, but it actually enhances its peppery flavor. Feta adds a tangy contrast, while mozzarella offers a milder balance. Choose based on your taste preferences for the perfect pairing!

Are There Any Vegetarian Options With Arugula?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options with arugula! You can toss it in salads, blend it into pesto, or use it as a topping for flatbreads and sandwiches. It adds a delicious, peppery flavor!