Guest Author - Sharon Lasitter

This turkey burger recipe is packed with nutrition and with flavor, but does not contain onions or garlic which may cause heartburn. Because it is served without a bun (hence the “naked”) it is safe for celiac disease sufferers. But if you tolerate gluten, feel free to add a whole grain bun and enjoy! (If turkey doesn’t agree with you, ground chicken will work just as well.) For seasoning, I use Herbamare herb seasoning salt, found at health food stores and coops. This is a fantastic product that blends beautifully will almost everything from rice to eggs to veggies to soups and meats.


Naked Turkey-Veggie Burger Recipe
Serves 5-6

Ingredients:
1 lb. ground organic turkey or chicken
1 medium zucchini, shredded
1 medium carrot, shredded
½ lb. portabella mushrooms, chopped
1 Tbs. ground flax seeds (you can grind your own or buy pre-ground from health food stores or the Natural section of your supermarket)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
5-6 slices of extra sharp cheddar cheese (or whatever your favorite is)
2 Tbs. pine nuts
1 Tbs. ultra light olive oil
Salt, pepper(I use Herbamare)
Nutmeg to taste

Shred zucchini and place in a paper towel layered colander to drain off extra water, then set aside. Shred carrot and chop mushrooms. Heat olive oil in cast iron skillet over medium heat and add mushrooms and pine nuts. Season to taste and sauté ‘til tender. Add in shredded veggies, season some more if you like, and sauté ‘til almost tender, then set aside to cool.

Transfer ground turkey (or chicken) from its tray, into a medium mixing bowl. Sprinkle in ground flax seeds, feta (if you use it) and some seasonings with nutmeg and mix well with your hands. Add cooled veggie mixture and knead into ground meat, making sure all ingredients are well distributed. Form into a symmetrical loaf and divide into 5-6 equal parts with the side of your hand or a spatula. Form each section into a pattie and place them in a medium heated pan with olive oil for about 10 to 15 minuets per side. Or you may place the patties on a baking sheet (oiled only under where the burgers are placed) and slide into a preheated 355 degree oven for about 30 minutes. Top with your favorite cheese and allow it to melt. Serve with steamed green beans and your favorite seasoned rice, if you like. Bon appetite!


*Please know that I am not a medical doctor or a health practitioner. I cannot diagnose your stomach problems nor can I guarantee a cure. I am here to share my knowledge, which applications have worked for me and to offer suggestions of where you may go physically, emotionally and spiritually for healing and self-empowerment. If you choose to explore alternative medicine, do not independently stop taking your prescribed medications. Always consult with your current doctor as well as your new practitioner when changing your medical program. Find a Naturopath near you.