Mediterranean Burger

If you're looking for something yummy to make this weekend, look no further.  I've got just the thing for you!  What started out as, simply, a way to use up our leftover pesto, turned into a new twist on an old classic.  Hamburgers really don't need anything to make them better.  There is nothing wrong with the age old - ketchup, mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, and onion.  If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right?  But I had leftover pesto...and goat cheese...and cilantro...and I needed to find a way to use it.  Maybe it sounds weird, but I promise it's good.  Trust me.

Behold, the Mediterranean Burger.  I want to encourage you to step outside of the "burger box" and try it.  Just give it a shot.  Come on, you can do it.

Mediterranean Burger

For the patty
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 cup pesto
4 mushrooms, finely diced
Salt and pepper

For the sauce
1/2 cup mayo
1 tsp. cumin
1 handful cilantro, finely chopped

For the burger
Red onion, sliced
Goat cheese, crumbled
Tomatoes, sliced
Lettuce
Burger buns, toasted

1. Mix the beef, pesto, and mushrooms and form into patties about 3 inches in diameter.
2. Place patties on a hot grill and cook to desired doneness (in our house we prefer medium - still a little pink in the center).
3. While the patties cook, mix up your sauce and prepare your toppings.  Also, toast the buns either on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble burgers - eat and enjoy!