Greek-Style Burgers with Creamy Feta Sauce and Fresh Tomato-Cucumber Relish
A zesty blend of creamy cheese and fresh veggies brings new life to classic grill fare.
Greek-Style Burgers with Creamy Feta Sauce and Tomato-Cucumber Relish
Bring vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your summer table with these juicy Greek-inspired burgers. Topped with a luscious, tangy feta sauce and a crisp, refreshing tomato-cucumber relish, this recipe breathes new life into the classic burger—perfect for grilling season or any time you crave bold, fresh flavors.
Why Greek-Style Burgers?
Burgers are universal, but incorporating Greek flavors elevates them: crumbly feta cheese, aromatic herbs, and a zesty relish balance the rich beef patties and offer a tasty twist on the familiar.
- Flavor-packed: Each element, from the seasoned beef to the feta sauce and relish, brings out true Mediterranean character.
- Texture contrast: Creamy sauce meets crisp, juicy vegetables and tender burger patties.
- Easy customization: The recipe is adaptable for different tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients
Each component builds complementary flavors and textures. Below are details for preparing the patties, the feta sauce, and the relish.
For the Greek Burger Patties
- 1 1/4 pounds ground beef (80-85% lean)
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs (use fresh or dried)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Creamy Feta Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole milk for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 2 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tomato-Cucumber Relish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced or quartered
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (Persian or English cucumbers preferred for low seeds and thin skins)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling
- 4 toasted hamburger buns or soft rolls
- Additional sliced tomatoes, red onion, or lettuce (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Burger Patties
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper until combined. Avoid overmixing to retain tenderness.
- Shape Patties: Form into four evenly sized patties, about 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick. Press a small indentation into the center of each to help prevent bulging as they cook.
- Chill: Refrigerate patties while you prepare the sauce and relish to firm them up for grilling.
2. Make the Creamy Feta Sauce
- Mix Together: In a medium mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped mint, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or mint as preferred. Let the sauce chill in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Tomato-Cucumber Relish
- Combine Veggies: In a bowl, toss the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion with chopped dill.
- Dress: Drizzle in olive oil and red wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper. Mix well and let sit for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the vegetables absorb the flavors.
4. Grill (or Pan-Cook) the Burgers
What others are reading
- Preheat Grill: Prepare a grill (charcoal or gas) for medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are well cleaned and oiled.
- Grill: Place burgers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once, until well-browned and cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F for medium or 165°F for well-done.
- Toast the Buns: Split and grill buns, cut side down, for about 1 minute until lightly charred and warmed.
For stovetop burgers: Cook patties on a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat as described above, adjusting time as needed.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Base Layer: Spread a generous spoonful of creamy feta sauce on the bottom of each bun.
- Add Patty: Lay the hot burger patty on the sauce.
- Top with Relish: Heap a generous scoop of tomato-cucumber relish on each patty.
- Add More Sauce: Optionally, add more feta sauce on top, then finish with the top bun.
- Serve Immediately: Serve burgers hot, with any extra relish or sauce on the side.
Tips for the Best Greek Burgers
- Use high-quality feta: Feta packed in brine has better flavor and a creamier consistency for the sauce.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Mint in the sauce and dill in the relish bring brightness and authenticity.
- Letting patties rest: Chilling the formed patties helps hold them together when grilling.
- Control moisture: Greek yogurt (rather than regular yogurt) gives the sauce body; seeding the cucumber prevents a watery relish.
Substitutions and Dietary Tweaks
- Lamb Burgers: Substitute half or all of the beef for ground lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor.
- Lean meat option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein; be sure not to overcook.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.
- Vegetarian: Swap patties for hearty grilled portobello mushrooms or veggie burger patties and keep the same toppings.
Serving Suggestions
These Greek burgers shine with a side of crisp fries, sweet potato wedges, or a leafy green salad tossed with lemon and olive oil. For extra authenticity, serve with pickled peppers or kalamata olives.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 480 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 950mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on actual ingredients used and portion size.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Patties: Can be shaped up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated, tightly covered.
- Feta sauce: Keeps well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, covered. Stir before using.
- Relish: Best made within a few hours of serving for peak freshness but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Freezing: Raw burger patties may be frozen up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Variations and Creative Twists
- Add tzatziki: Swap or supplement the feta sauce with tangy, cucumber-rich tzatziki.
- Add greens: Try adding arugula, baby spinach, or shredded romaine for extra crunch.
- Pita or flatbread: Serve burgers wrapped in soft pita or folded lavash instead of buns for a handheld gyro experience.
- Extra toppings: Kalamata olives, pepperoncini, or thinly sliced radishes add more Mediterranean flair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the feta sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the creamy feta sauce can be made one to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stir before spreading, as the feta may separate slightly from the yogurt upon chilling.
Q: What is the best type of cucumber for the relish?
A: English or Persian cucumbers are ideal since they have thin skins and fewer seeds. If using standard cucumbers, peel and seed before dicing for best texture.
Q: How do I prevent my burger patties from shrinking or bulging?
A: Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps prevent the patty from puffing up as it grills or fries.
Q: Can I use lamb or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely. Lamb will create a richer, more traditional Greek flavor. Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter version—just take care not to overcook leaner meats.
Q: What sides pair well with these burgers?
A: A Greek-style salad, lemony roasted potatoes, or even simple fries are all excellent complements. Serve extra relish or feta sauce alongside for dipping.
Final Tips for Success
- Rest your cooked patties: Let burgers sit for 2-3 minutes off the grill before assembling so the juices redistribute.
- Balance your flavors: Adjust the relish for sweetness or acidity as needed based on the ripeness of your tomatoes.
- Serve immediately: The combination of warm patties with cold sauce and relish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
These Greek-style burgers are an easy and rewarding way to satisfy a craving for both comfort food and bright, summery Mediterranean flavors. With creamy feta sauce and a garden-fresh relish, they stand apart from ordinary burgers and offer a flavorful option for family meals, summer grilling, or casual entertaining.
References
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