These Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt and Mediterranean Salad are bursting with bright, fresh flavor. Juicy, tender, and easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is inspired by Primal Gourmet’s healthy Mediterranean-style dishes.
The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad
My husband and I have always been drawn to Mediterranean flavors — the brightness of lemon, the freshness of herbs, and the way a drizzle of olive oil can make even the simplest ingredients feel special.
One evening while scrolling Instagram, I came across a recipe from Primal Gourmet, one of my favorite creators for Whole30 and healthy spins on global cuisines. His Mediterranean turkey burgers immediately caught my eye — juicy patties packed with spinach and feta, paired with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp salad. I had to try it.
I didn’t stray far from his version, because honestly, it was perfect as-is. The flavors are incredible — the turkey stays juicy and tender, the feta adds a creamy bite, and that lemon-dill yogurt ties everything together. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet fresh and elegant enough to serve for guests.
This has quickly become one of my new favorites — a dish that tastes like sunshine, simplicity, and the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite.
Enjoy!
What Ingredients Do I Need?
These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers come together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that balance brightness and comfort beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Turkey: Lean yet tender, turkey provides the perfect canvas for Mediterranean herbs and creamy feta. Choose 93% lean for juicy, flavorful patties.
- Baby Spinach: Adds color, moisture, and a subtle earthy note that keeps the burgers tender and nutrient-packed.
- Feta Cheese: Brings salty, tangy flavor and little creamy pops in every bite. Look for authentic Greek feta packed in brine for the best flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly grated garlic deepens the flavor and ties together the lemon, dill, and herbs.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the burger mixture together while adding a little richness.
- Fresh Dill: Adds a bright, herbal kick to the yogurt sauce that complements the feta perfectly.
- Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy — it’s the base for that dreamy lemon-dill sauce that cools and balances the savory burgers.
- Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and acidity, essential to achieving that true Mediterranean flavor.
- Olive Oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking — use a good-quality extra-virgin oil for both the salad and cooking the burgers.
- Fresh Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Lettuce): Crisp, juicy, and colorful, they round out the plate with texture and freshness.
- Fresh Parsley: A little sprinkle adds color, freshness, and that classic Mediterranean green note.
Substitutions and Variations
These turkey burgers are wonderfully flexible — you can adjust them for what you have on hand or give them a new flavor twist altogether.
Basic Substitutions
- Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a similar lean option. For a richer flavor, try ground lamb or beef.
- Greens: Use finely chopped kale or arugula instead of spinach. Both add a slightly different flavor and extra nutrients.
- Cheese: If you’re out of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang or crumbled cotija for a saltier bite.
- Yogurt: Regular Greek yogurt is best, but dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt work for a lighter option.
- Herbs: No dill? Try fresh mint, basil, or oregano for a different Mediterranean spin.
Variation 1: Greek Island Style
Add a few chopped Kalamata olives and a pinch of lemon zest to the burger mixture, then top the finished burgers with sliced cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil. The olives bring depth and briny balance to the creamy feta.
Variation 2: Spicy Mediterranean Twist
Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste or a pinch of cayenne into the turkey mixture and top the burgers with a spoonful of tzatziki instead of the lemon-dill yogurt. This version brings heat and depth while keeping that fresh, Mediterranean vibe.
Kitchen Tips & Notes
- Chill the Patties: Refrigerating the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them firm up and hold their shape beautifully.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed — overworking the meat can make the burgers dense.
- Use Damp Hands: Lightly wet your hands before forming the patties; this prevents sticking and gives you smooth, even shapes.
- Cook in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan so the burgers brown evenly and develop that golden crust.
- Make Ahead Friendly: The burger mixture and the yogurt sauce can both be prepped a day ahead — perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
- Serving Idea: Serve these burgers over the salad, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or tucked into warm pita with extra lemon-dill yogurt for a handheld version.
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