Lean ground turkey provides protein with fewer calories and less saturated fat and cholesterol than ground beef. These burgers are loaded with flavorful basil, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese for a taste that mimics your favorite pesto.

Yield: 4 burgers

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Grilling time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground turkey (about 93% lean)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp finely chopped raw walnuts

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Directions

1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the ground meat. Form the meat into four patties.

2. Spray the grill grate with non-stick cooking spray and heat the grill to high. Grill the burgers for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.