Weekdays are tough to create interesting dinners with busy work schedules, activities, etc.  Even firing up the grill, something like a turkey burger can be pretty pedestrian, but it doesn’t have to be.  Try this Southwest twist on the ol’ bird-patty, we loved it!

SOUTHWEST TURKEY BURGERS

Ingredients

• 2 1/4-Lbs Turkey Burger Patties
• 1 Tbs Taco Seasoning
• 1 Medium Red Onion
• 1 Tsp Olive Oil
• Salt & Pepper
• 2 slices Colby Jack Cheese
• 2 Buns, Lightly Buttered

Directions

• Preheat grill and dust both sides of each turkey burger with taco seasoning.
• Slice red onion into 1/2 inch thick slices, brush lightly with olive oil and salt and pepper each side.
• Grill turkey burgers and onion slices over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.  Juices should run clear for the burgers.  Onion slices should be charred and soft, but hold together.
• Place cheese on burgers and place buns, buttered side down, on the grill.  Take everything off grill and assemble burgers on buns.  Top with a slice of grilled onion and a healthy dollop of guacamole.

These are super easy to make and always turn out like a restaurant-quality burger.  Don’t be afraid to play with the toppings and add/substitute salsa, hot sauce, pickled jalapeño or pepper jack cheese!

EVERYDAY GUACAMOLE

Ingredients

• 2 Ripe Avocados
• 1/4 Red Onion, Diced
• 4 Campari Tomatoes, Seeded & Diced
• 2 Tbs Fresh Lime Juice
• Salt & Pepper To Taste

Instructions

• Core, scoop and dice avocados and place into bowl.
• Pour lime juice over avocado and add tomatoes and onions.
• Liberally season with salt and pepper and mix well.  I like mine a little chunky, but mix and mash with a fork to your desired consistency.

This is the basic recipe for guac in our house.  It’s easy to multiply if you need more for a party.  I also like to add garlic and/or jalapeño depending on what I’m using it for.  Seriously, always keep these ingredients on hand because it couldn’t look more like culinary genius when you pull this together last-minute for guests or just an impromptu beer or margarita on the patio!