Name: California Umami Turkey Burger with Charred Tomato Relish & Avocado Slaw
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs lean ground turkey (93% lean); 1 cup finely diced cremini mushrooms; 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (green & white parts); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (divided); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 small ripe avocado, diced; 2 cups thinly shredded green cabbage; 1/3 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 4 whole wheat burger buns (or gluten-free if desired); Cooking spray or a little extra oil for grill/pan

California Umami Turkey Burger with Charred Tomato Relish & Avocado Slaw

CookwithNewsletter

This is not your average turkey burger—it's a flavor-forward creation that hits every note: juicy, umami-packed patties boosted with mushrooms and soy, smoky paprika, and plenty of fresh scallions. Instead of typical ketchup or mustard, you'll spoon over a tangy, charred tomato and onion relish for sweet-savory zip, and pile on a creamy, herbaceous avocado slaw that cuts through richness with brightness and crunch. Toasted whole wheat buns add a hint of nutty flavor. Each burger delivers over 35g protein, making it a powerhouse meal you’ll want to brag about. Served with extra slaw on the side!

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat your grill or a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Spray or brush lightly with oil.
In a large bowl, combine turkey, mushrooms, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 4 thick patties.
Toss cherry tomatoes and red onion with 1 tsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Grill or pan-char in a grill basket or on a foil-lined tray for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes burst and onions soften. Transfer to a bowl, toss with remaining lemon juice and set aside as relish.
For the slaw, combine cabbage, carrots, avocado, cilantro, remaining olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Toss gently until avocado just begins to coat the veggies, but some chunks remain.
Grill or pan-cook burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, until a thermometer reads 165°F and patties are nicely browned. Let rest 2-3 minutes.
Toast buns lightly. Spread a little avocado from the slaw on the bottom bun. Top with a turkey patty, a generous spoonful of charred tomato relish, and a mound of avocado slaw. Add bun top and serve immediately.