Shrink your waist and expand your palate
‘Jack and Guac’ Turkey Burgers
Despite increasing concerns about growing waistlines and the dangerous obesity epidemic, many families continue to feel overwhelmed by the idea of a full-fledged diet overhaul. Don’t be discouraged. Even small changes at the dinner table can make a big difference.
An April 2010 study conducted by Shape Up America!, titled “The Impact of Small Dietary Change,” revealed that incorporating one simple change when preparing favorite family meals—such as using turkey in place of certain cuts of beef, pork or veal—produced an average savings of 108 calories per meal.
Not only does substituting turkey save calories, it also reduces fat intake. Ground turkey ranges from 85 percent to 99 percent fat free, and compared to other meats, ground turkey contains among the lowest saturated fat levels.
Cooking with turkey is easier than you might think. Turkey is an easy alternative for a broad range of dishes that typically contain beef. The texture and flavor of ground turkey meat works with a wide range of preparation methods, including dishes such as burgers, tacos, pasta and casseroles.
For a new, flavorful and lean twist on the classic burger, try these ‘Jack and Guac’ Turkey Burgers, which combine turkey protein and a lineup of nutritious toppings.
‘Jack and Guac’ Turkey Burgers
Serves 4
4 JENNIE-O® Turkey Burgers—(pre-formed or made with ground turkey)
4 slices—ciabatta bread or whole wheat burger buns
4 slices—low-fat pepper jack cheese
8 strips—JENNIE-O® Extra Lean Turkey Bacon, fried and crisp
Guacamole (homemade or prepared, such as Wholly Guacamole®)
Brush grill rack with oil. Place burger patties on grill. Prepare the turkey burgers as specified on the packaging. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer. Place each patty on a bun and top with one slice of cheese, two slices of turkey bacon and guacamole.
Grilling with Confidence
* Experiment. Don’t be afraid to play with new flavor combinations. With a little experimentation, you may discover new ways to create delicious turkey burgers on the grill.
* Choose ingredients wisely. The best way to ensure grilling success is by choosing the highest-quality ingredients. Look for lean, delicious JENNIE-O® Turkey at your local grocery store.
* Add a spoonful of flavor. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, seasoning or marinade on the turkey about 10 minutes before grilling to enhance the meat’s natural flavor.
* Temperature is everything. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine when the meat is ready to enjoy. Place the meat 3 to 6 inches from the heat source and cook burgers to at least 165°F.
* Savor the flavor. To keep the delicious turkey juices intact, resist the urge to press and flatten a turkey burger while it is cooking on the grill.
Tips for Food Safety
* Clean. Remember to use warm, soapy water to wash anything the raw meat touches.
* Separate. Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw meat from other foods.
* Cook. Fully cook meat to destroy bacteria that could cause food-borne illnesses. Always cook turkey well-done, 165∫F as measured by a meat thermometer.
* Chill. Storing at the right temperature helps keep meat safe.
For additional recipes and preparation tips, visit www.jennieo.com.
Grilling is a great way to get a whole lot of flavor that goes way beyond plain burgers and basic barbecue. Lean meats, juicy marinades and zesty toppings add up to terrific flame-kissed dishes that will make guests want to kiss the cook.
Here are some easy ways to take big flavor from the grate to the plate:
Grilling can bring so much more to the table than basic brats and burgers. In these recipes, cookbook author and celebrity chef Nick Stellino uses a few key ingredients that add new dimensions of flavor to seafood, steak and even salad. He calls on olive oil and vinegars from Pompeian to make savory marinades and zesty seasonings that will make you truly savor the grilling season.
LOS ANGELES - Six cases of salmonella believed to be linked to ground turkey have been confirmed in California, including cases in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento and San Francisco, the state Department of Public Health confirmed today.
The lone fatality among 77 salmonella cases reported nationwide was in
Sacramento, according to the agency.
Summer is the ideal time to have friends and family over for casual get-togethers that are centered on the grill and outdoor dining. Add some zip to your summer party with a few tips and a simple recipe that are sure to please your guests.
Set the Mood: Get the party started right with some great music. Bring the speakers outside and start your playlist about 20 minutes before anyone is expected to arrive. That way, you get into the swing of things early - and you’re ready for any early birds.
This Father's Day, give Dad the royal treatment by creating a feast that combines his two favorite things - the grill and steak.
Whether you serve the King Tenderloin with Red Velvet Demi Glace, the Duke of Sirloin with Pub Rub, the Count Strip Loin with Parmesan Crusted Crown, or the Barron of Ribeye with Royal Forest Butter, His Majesty will savor every mouthwatering bite. And when you follow these grilling tips and cook his steaks to perfection, he may very well proclaim you Master of the Grill.
