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Greek Burgers with Harissa Mayo, Za'atar, and Crispy Prosciutto Recipe

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4.3 from 14 reviews

These Greek Burgers blend aromatic Middle Eastern spices with rich, savory flavors from ground meat, complemented by crisp prosciutto and creamy cheeses. Finished with a spicy harissa mayo and fresh arugula on toasted brioche or pretzel buns, they offer a delicious twist on classic burgers perfect for a flavorful family meal or gathering.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

Harissa Mayo

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or 1/4 cup tahini mixed with 1/4 cup water)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Sea salt, to taste

Prosciutto

  • 3 ounces prosciutto

Burger Patties

  • 2 pounds ground beef, lamb, or chicken (half beef, half lamb recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons za'atar
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 1 tablespoon sumac
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Cheeses

  • 6-8 thin slices Gouda cheese
  • 6-8 thin slices Swiss cheese

Burger Assembly

  • 6-8 brioche or pretzel burger buns, toasted
  • 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes or 6 tomato slices
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • 1 cup green zhoug (Middle Eastern spicy herb sauce; optional or store-bought like Trader Joe's)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Harissa Mayo: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the mayonnaise (or tahini and water mixture), harissa paste, lemon juice, and salt to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Crisp the Prosciutto: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Arrange the prosciutto slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the prosciutto becomes crispy. Remove and set aside.
  3. Mix the Burger Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with za'atar, harissa paste, sumac, onion powder, and a generous pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties. Divide and form the mixture into 6 to 8 evenly sized patties.
  4. Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill, grill pan, or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until they reach your preferred level of doneness. In the final minute of cooking, place a slice of Gouda and a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty to melt.
  5. Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the burger buns and toast them until they turn a golden brown, adding flavor and slight crunch.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Spread the prepared harissa mayo on both halves of each toasted bun. Place a cheese-topped burger patty on the bottom half, then layer with sliced tomatoes, a spoonful of green zhoug, crispy prosciutto, and fresh arugula. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Green Zhoug is a spicy Middle Eastern herb sauce made with cilantro, parsley, garlic, chili, and spices. Store-bought versions like Trader Joe's are a convenient option.
  • You can substitute the meat combination with all beef, all lamb, or ground chicken depending on preference.
  • Adjust the harissa paste quantity in the mayo and meat mixture according to your desired spice level.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with plant-based burger patties and omit prosciutto and cheese.
  • Ensure not to overmix the meat when forming patties to keep them tender.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek / Middle Eastern

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/greek-burgers-with-harissa-mayo-zaatar-and-crispy-prosciutto-recipe/