Grilled Turkey Sliders with Tzatziki

In Main Dishes, Recipes by Frances Largeman-Roth

Makes 10 sliders

It’s finally grilling season! My family loves these flavorful turkey sliders and they’re great served on a bun or in a lettuce cup. You can serve them with the zesty tzatziki or with traditional burger accompaniments like ketchup and mustard. The best thing is that they’re so quick to make!

For the tzatziki:

  • 1 large hothouse cucumber, halved and finely diced (11⁄2 cups)
  • ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 large clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

For the turkey sliders:

  • 1 pound ground 85% lean, Jennie-O turkey
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ⅛ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 shallot, minced (or use 1 tablespoon for a milder flavor)
  • 10 small buns, about 2 inches in diameter, split and toasted
  • 1 head Boston bibb lettuce

Preparation:

  1. Combine all the tzatziki ingredients in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  2. Make the sliders: Coat a grill or grill pan with cooking spray and preheat   to medium-high. Combine the turkey, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and shallot in a large bowl. With clean hands, form the meat into 2-inch patties and place on a large plate or platter. Press your thumb into the center of each patty to make an indentation.
  3. Set out a clean plate or platter for cooked sliders. Place sliders on the hot grill or griddle. If using a grill, cook for 4 minutes per side. If using a griddle or pan, cook for 3-4 minutes per side, and then finish in a 350° oven for 5 to 6 minutes. For both cooking methods, test with a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer sliders to platter and serve on a bun or in a lettuce wrap. Add a dollop of tzatziki and enjoy!