Cooking Therapy

Grilling time is always a good time, especially when there are burgers on the grill. This recipe combines my Hellenic roots with a traditional American staple, the hamburger. It is a perfect way to introduce something new to the grill, especially since you will also be grilling cheese!!! The grilled halloumi complements the burger well and really adds a sharpness of flavor. This is unlike any burger you have ever had. Try yours today!

Prep Time: 15 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Wait Time: 30 Minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground pork

1 pound of ground lamb

2 tablespoons of oregano

1 tablespoon of rosemary

1 teaspoon of red chili flakes

Salt

Black pepper

Olive Oil

1 block of halloumi or another semi-hard cheese that can be grilled, cut into 1/4 inch slices

2 large tomatoes

1 large green cubanelle pepper

Kalamata olives, pitted

1 large scallion

Instructions

• In a large bowl add the meats, and the spices and mix. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil and mix further
• Put the meat in the fridge and let cool for half an hour
• Once the meat is ready, shape into 4oz patties and press a thumbprint into the center
• Heat up a grill to medium high heat, or you can cook the patties in a ridge lined pan in a medium high heat as well using olive oil to sauté them
• Cook the patties about 6 minutes on each side
• Once the patties are done, cover them in foil and set them aside for about 10 minutes so that they can rest

• Grill the halloumi, about 5 minutes on each side and set aside once done

• Prepare a salad using the tomatoes, olives, pepper, and scallion. I was using this as both a burger topping and side salad
• Assemble the burger to your liking using any condiments you choose. I topped mine with pickles and the salad I made
• Enjoy!