Thursday, August 9, 2012

Turkey- Pepperoni Burgers with Pesto Mayo



We have been eating a whole lot of ground turkey lately (organic of course), in lieu of ground beef.   I still think beef makes a better burger but this recipe should kick your turkey buns up a notch!

Chopped up pepperoni slices, some pesto mayo, provolone and yumbo! 
If you dont' have pesto on hand, mix a little garlic and dried basil with your mayo for a very close rendition. 

I like to cook my turkey burgers in a cast iron or nonstick pan instead of the grill, they are much juicer.  But if you choose to use the BBQ, for heavens sake don't press the burger patty down with your spatula ...jeeze that just makes me nuts when I see people doing that!  All the juices go right to the bottom of the BBQ and you are left with a turkey burger carcass.

Another trick for a juicier turkey burger is to avoid cutting into the burger with a knife when checking for doneness, this releases all the juices.....press down on the patty with your finger, if it is firm in the center,  it is done.  (Should feel like pressing on the ball of your hand...if you have really fat hands then I would pass on this technique and buy a good thermometer).

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Lemon Raspberry Snack Cake



We never seem to be able to finish a big sheet cake...I know!!!  I can't believe it either!  I end up tossing half and I hate to waste food...hate, hate, hate!  This is the perfect size.

Lemon Curd and Yogurt are the secrets to this moist, yummy snack cake!

If you haven't cooked with Lemon Curd before, it tastes just like the gooey center of a lemon cookie bar.  It is good straight outta the jar.  It has a mild flavor but adds moistness and bit of tang to the cake.   I wanted more lemon flavor so I added a teaspoon of grated lemon peel.

I didn't drizzle with frosting but when I make it again I will.  Mix a cup of powdered sugar and a tablespoon of lemon juice and drizzle on top after the cake cools...something to look forward too next time!

Simple, simple recipe and a nice bright flavor.  You could easily substitute blueberry's or blackberries.