Pesto Burgers Light

Elevate your burger game with these light and flavorful Pesto Burgers Light, a healthier twist on the classic comfort food! Made with lean ground turkey or chicken and infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, these patties are tender, juicy, and packed with taste. Panko breadcrumbs give the burgers a delicate texture, while a quick sear in olive oil ensures a beautifully golden crust. Served on toasted whole-grain buns and topped with peppery arugula, ripe tomato slices, and a hint of creamy Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. With just 15 minutes of prep time and wholesome ingredients, these guilt-free burgers are an irresistible combination of freshness and indulgence.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:12 mins

Total Time:27 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground turkey or chicken
• 0.25 cup Fresh basil pesto
• 0.25 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 4 pieces Whole-grain burger buns
• 1 cup Fresh arugula
• 4 pieces Tomato slices
• 0.25 cup Optional: Low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey or chicken, basil pesto, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can make the patties dense.

Step 2

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 3

Heat a large non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the surface.

Step 4

Place the patties in the skillet or on the grill pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the patties are nicely browned on the outside.

Step 5

While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on another skillet, grill, or toaster until golden brown.

Step 6

Assemble the burgers: Place each cooked patty onto the bottom half of a toasted bun. Top with fresh arugula, a slice of tomato, and a dollop of low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt if desired.

Step 7

Finish each burger with the top half of the bun. Serve immediately, and enjoy your light and flavorful Pesto Burger!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1008.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2218.3

Total Fat 110.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 25.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 430.0mg	0%
Sodium 4062.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 175.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.1g	0%
Total Sugars 22.5g
Protein 147.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 641.9mg	0%
Iron 17.7mg	0%
Potassium 1980.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.6%

Protein: 25.8%

Carbs: 30.7%