Be Better Guys

You’ve been eating at backyard barbecues all summer, so by this point you are saturated with the typical hot dogs and hamburgers. Not that there’s anything wrong with burgers, but why not try something a bit different? Instead of ground beef, try ground lamb. It has an earthy, sweet taste that’s great on the grill. We’re recommending sliders (small burgers roughly 2 inches in diameter) for a couple of reasons: it’s fun to play with your food; you get burgers that are diet-friendly in size; and it’s a manageable portion for the curious kids who might not think they like lamb, but are willing to eat a burger.

You can top them anyway you like. Me? I like this with some pesto or raita instead of ketchup and mustard. However you eat them, make these lamb sliders before the summer runs out.

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup Feta or goat’s milk cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh scallions or chives
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Combine ground lamb and the rest of the ingredients in a bowl. Mix well and add salt and pepper to taste. Mold into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter and roughly the width of your thumb thick (about 1 inch). Assuming you’re grilling, place burgers on very hot (high heat) part of the grill. Turn after about 2 minutes, then remove after another 2 minutes for medium burgers. Serve on a flat bread like khoubiz (Lebanese flat bread), focaccia,  or even pita. Makes about 12 sliders.