SUMMERTIME IS GRILLIN' TIME!

After purchasing a new gas grill last season I began to search for tips and tricks to make grilling more enjoyable, healthier, and delicious. I had little or no experience with the grill, gas or charcoal, so I've really been experimenting and learning as I go. Burgers are always a summertime favorite and I found a couple of yummy recipes that are relatively healthy and easy to make.
TANGY TURKEY BURGERS
1 1/2   lb. ground turkey
2 green onions, chopped
2 tbsp. white wine and herb chicken marinade( Lea and Perrins is excellent)
1 tsp. garlic salt with parsley (I used garlic powder and parsley flakes)
1 tsp. pepper
6 hamburger buns-toasted (I like Merita lite wheat)
assorted toppings- cheese, lettuce, tomato etc.
 Gently combine 1st 5 ingredients. Shape into 6 (4 inch) patties-Be sure to put a deep thumbprint in the center of each patty to keep the shape of the burger
Grill on medium-high heat for 6-8 min. on each side or until done.


 PAUL BUNYAN BURGERS

1 egg, lightly beaten (egg substitute will work)
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. seasoned salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp. prepared horseradish
1 lb. ground beef (I usually combine ground round with ground sirloin)
Combine 1st 5 ingredients in a large bowl and sprinkle beef over mixture mixing well but carefully until just combined. Shape into 6- 1/4 in. thick patties (don't forget to put your thumbprint in each patty)
Grill uncovered over medium-hot heat for 5-6 min. a side or until meat thermometer reads 160 degrees and meat juices run clear.
The burgers are good as is but the recipes suggests cooking 6 bacon strips until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to paper towels. In the drippings saute 1 c. mushrooms and 3 thin onion slices until tender. Combine with bacon. Use this mixture as a topping for the burgers and add a piece of cheese to each.
These burgers are a definite splurge at our house as we are trying to cut way back on red meat and bacon is also a no-no. But once in a while we treat ourselves!

SUMMER SMOOTHIES

Summer is here and the weather is SIZZLIN'! Smoothies are a great way to stay cool and get your fruit servings! The smoothies on this post are delicious and nutritious. They can be made and stored in the refrigerator to be enjoyed later or most of the recipes make enough for two servings. They make a wonderful breakfast or afternoon snack. ENJOY!
BANANA: Blend 2 bananas, 1/2 c. each vanilla yogurt and milk, 2 tsp. honey, a pinch of cinnamon, and a cup of ice.
STRAWBERRY-BANANA: 1 banana, 1 c. strawberries, 1/2 c. each vanilla yogurt and milk, 2 tsp. honey, a pinch of cinnamon and a cup of ice.
KIWI-STRAWBERRY: Blend 1 c. strawberries, 2 peeled kiwis, 2 tbsp. sugar and 2 c. ice
BLUEBERRY-BANANA: Blend 1 banana, 1 c. blueberries, 1/2 c. unsweetened coconut milk, 1 tbsp. each honey and lime juice, 1/4 tsp. almond extract and 1 c. ice.
CREAMY PINEAPPLE: Blend  2 c. chopped pineapple, 1/2 c. cottage cheese, 1/4 c. milk, 2 tsp. honey, 1/4 tsp. vanilla, a pinch each of nutmeg and salt, and 2 c. ice. (I substitute 1 banana and 1/4 c. vanilla yogurt for the cottage cheese sometimes)