The Summer Turkey Burger That Feels Indulgent but Nourishing

There’s something about summer that just calls for burgers. They feel celebratory, nostalgic, and just plain fun. But I wanted something lighter - something that felt good to eat without leaving me weighed down.

So this week, I made a turkey burger that checked every box: flavorful, juicy, and loaded with toppings that make every bite better. It’s proof that real food doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste. You can enjoy a meal that feels indulgent and nourishing at the same time.

The Burger Build

For the patties (makes 4)

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1/2 cup bread crumbs

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp cottage cheese

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the toppings:

• Lettuce leaves or whole grain buns

• Sliced heirloom tomato

• Avocado slices

• Fresh arugula

• Pickled onions

• Hummus or aioli (for creamy spread)

How to Make Them:

1. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, cottage cheese, salt and pepper.

2. Mix gently until combined and form into 4 patties

3. Cook on a skillet or grill for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165 F)

4. Assemble on a lettuce wrap or bun: Spread hummus or aioli, add arugula, burger patty, heirloom tomato slice, avocado slices and pickled onions

Why I Love This Meal

It’s flavorful and fresh but still feels like a treat. I love that you can pile on toppings that make it feel gourmet without the heaviness of a classic burger. It’s the kind of meal that reminds me real food doesn’t have to be complicated— it just has to be intentional.

This is the type of meal I want Rooted Feast to help people discover: simple, nourishing, and rooted in care.

From my kitchen to yours,
Jennifer