Summer is in full swing and nothing says summer quite like a good old fashioned (or not so old fashioned!) burger. Burgers are a great vessel for whole grains, and we’re not just talking the bun, anymore. Whole grains are the ideal base for creative and delicious veggie burgers and for adding extra flavor and substance to your traditional meat burgers. Why not?

 

So what are the benefits of mixing whole grains into your burger or making your burger all whole grain? The whole grain adds bulk and substance without adding empty and unnecessary calories; the grains also add fiber which keeps you feeling full longer and helps maintain that beach physique. Another benefit? Mixing whole grains in with meat cuts back on meat consumption: better for your health and your wallet!

 

Now for the yummy part. Most whole grains (think bulgur, quinoa, brown rice, etc.) will make a great meat-free patty when combined with a liquid such as an egg or even a bit of water or vegetable broth, a handful of fresh herbs from that summer garden, and some whole wheat bread crumbs to bind everything together. Our Program Manager Karen got really creative with her Bulgur-Black Bean Veggie Burger (now that’s a mouthful!), mixing in mashed black beans for even more fiber and protein.  This bodacious black bean concoction, and other whole grain “burgers” become ideal bases for toppings such as spicy aiolis. garden fresh tomatoes, grilled veggies and so many other delicious things.

 

For meat eaters, adding whole grains to your burgers is as simple as, well, adding whole grains to your meat! Get a little creative with your burgers and add in oats for a heartier texture, as in these Stuffed Turkey Burgers with Smoky Aioli. Try adding bulgur and parsley to ground lamb for a rich, Mediterranean-inspired tabbouleh burger. Top with some crumbled feta and chopped mint, and there you have it—summer on a plate! Not a red meat eater? Mix some wild rice with ground chicken for an earthy, nutty burger and go wild with the toppings!

 

Now that we’ve got the whole grain burger ball rolling, we want to know, what’s your favorite whole grain burger concoction? Add your comments and favorites below! (Mallory)