These grilled turkey burgers with cucumber salad are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with a cool, refreshing side. Made with lean ground turkey, simple seasonings, and a crisp lemony cucumber salad, this healthy grilling recipe is high-protein, light, and satisfying. Ideal for summer cookouts or easy weeknight dinners, these turkey burgers stay moist and delicious every time.
Ingredients
- Turkey Burgers
- 1 pound ground turkey 93% lean recommended
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for grill grates
- Cucumber Salad
- 2 English or Persian cucumbers thinly sliced
- ¼ small red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey optional
Instructions
- Make the Turkey Burgers
- Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
- Form into 4 evenly sized patties and press a small dimple into the center of each.
- Grill burgers for 5–6 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from grill and rest for 5 minutes.
- Make the Cucumber Salad
- In a bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
- Pour dressing over vegetables and toss gently.
- Chill briefly or serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking lean turkey.
- Do not press burgers while grilling—this releases moisture.
- Salt cucumbers lightly and drain if you prefer a less watery salad.
- Burgers can be served with or without buns.