Lamb Burgers with Feta-Yogurt Sauce & Cucumber, Tomato, Onion, Dill Salad

It's been nearly two months since my last post and frankly...I'm feeling a bit, "off my game."  No new heading.  No new layout.  No fancy new features or gadgets...  Sigh.

Thanks to those of you who stuck around and offered words of encouragement during my blogging hiatus. I never could have imagined that a small house fire would be so completely disruptive. 

That said, I am constantly reminded how lucky we were that no one was hurt and the damage to our home was minimal.  Since April 5th, life's been busy and stressful and we're still not back to where we were...but we're getting there slowly.

 

I haven't stopped cooking however; in fact almost every day I thought about sharing (with you) the meals we were making and eating.  In all honesty though, when it got right down to taking the photographs of the food and writing up posts....I simply didn't have it in me.  

Blogging takes up a lot of time.  I want my pictures to be very good.  I want the recipes featured to be tested, clear and concise.  I want to give anyone who visits Care's Kitchen a reason to return... but in the vast sea of excellent food blogs and professional food magazine sites, I'm afraid I'm getting worn down.  Sometimes...I just want to cook for the people I love. 

I missed all of you though and that is why I am back.  My hope is that with each post I do from here onward...I find that, "healthy life/blog balance" and that my passion and love for blogging returns. 

These DELICIOUS Lamb Burgers (though I know not every one's favorite...but I happen to LOVE) are the perfect start!  Here's to Summer!!! :) xo

Lamb Burgers with Feta-Yogurt Sauce & Cucumber, Tomato, Onion, Dill Salad

 

 

1 lb ground lamb
1/2 cup finely diced onion
1 garlic clove, minced
2 T fresh chopped flat leaf parsley
2 T fresh chopped dill
1/2 t kosher salt
1/2 t fresh cracked pepper

Directions:

Mix all together in a large bowl and form into small to medium patties. Place in refrigerator under plastic wrap until ready to cook.

When ready, preheat charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400 if there's a temperature gauge.) Spray your lamb burgers with cooking spray on both sides or lightly brush with olive oil. 

Place burgers on the grill, close the lid and let them sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. (Do not press down on the burgers at any time and make sure your grill isn't getting too hot.)

After 5 minutes, open the lid to the grill and flip the burgers over.  Again, close the lid and do not disturb.  After another 5 minutes, (if using a gas grill) turn off the heat but keep the burgers on the grill with the lid closed an additional 2 minutes. (If using charcoal, remove the burgers and immediately cover with foil and allow them to rest under the foil about 3-4 minutes).

Last, remove the burgers from the grill or foil and allow them for rest another 4-5 minutes to distribute juices. 

Top burgers with the Feta-Yogurt Sauce and Cucumber, Tomato, Onion, Dill Salad. (recipes follow)

Yields about 5-6.

Cucumber, Tomato, Onion Dill Salad

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced
1/2 onion, thinly sliced

1 medium/large tomato, seeded and diced
1 T fresh chopped dill
1 T fresh chopped parsley
1/4 cup Italian dressing
pinch of salt and pepper

Mix all together, adjust seasoning to taste. Serve with the lamb burgers on the side or on top.

Feta-Yogurt Sauce

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/2 cup plain Greek style yogurt

1 tablespoon mayo (optional but I like the richness it adds)

2 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3/4 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoon milk

scant pinch of salt

Mix all together, adjust taste as needed. Can be made 2 days ahead, keep chilled.