Herbed Turkey and Avocado Sliders
Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Recipes
I'm thrilled to share this recipe for Herbed Turkey and Avocado Sliders! These sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering. Combining lean turkey, fresh herbs, and creamy avocado, they deliver a burst of flavors in every bite. Plus, the vibrant colors make for a beautiful presentation on any plate. I just know you'll enjoy this delightful twist on classic sliders as much as I do!
When I first made these Herbed Turkey and Avocado Sliders, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The combination of fresh herbs, like basil and cilantro, adds a refreshing note that perfectly complements the lean turkey. I always use ripe avocados for their creamy texture, which elevates the overall taste of the sliders.
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. I recommend making extra turkey patties to store in the fridge, allowing me to whip up a fantastic meal in just minutes. They also freeze well, making them a convenient option for future meals!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile like no other.
- Avocado adds a rich creaminess that complements the turkey.
- Perfectly sized for serving at parties or for a quick weeknight meal.
Choosing the Right Turkey
When selecting ground turkey for your sliders, aim for a blend that is around 85% lean. This balance helps maintain juicy sliders without excess fat. Turkey that is too lean can result in dry patties, losing that succulent flavor you want. If you prefer a richer taste, you can also use ground chicken or replace up to half the turkey with ground pork for added flavor.
Always check the packaging for freshness dates. Ideally, you should use the turkey within a day or two of purchase, or freeze it if needed. When freezing, press the meat into a flattened shape to allow for quicker thawing. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before preparing your sliders.
Perfecting the Cooking Technique
Cooking the patties evenly is crucial for both safety and taste. Preheating your skillet is essential; it should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles upon contact. Use a non-stick skillet or add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking, allowing for easy flipping. You’ll know the patties are ready to flip when you see golden edges and they easily release from the pan.
If cooking for a crowd, consider using a griddle pan or an outdoor grill. This not only helps cook multiple sliders at once but also adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just ensure you monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to confirm they reach the safe minimum of 165°F (75°C).
Enhancing Flavor and Presentation
Incorporating toppings like fresh herbs in the filling is a game changer for enhancing flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste preferences—dill or parsley could work wonderfully. Additionally, for an extra crunch and burst of flavor, consider adding pickles or spicy jalapeños to each slider when assembling.
For a beautiful presentation, feel free to serve these sliders on a platter garnished with colorful vegetables like sliced bell peppers or a vibrant side salad. It not only looks appealing but also adds nutritional value, making your serving experience vibrant and delightful.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:
For the Sliders
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 small slider buns
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
For Serving
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Your favorite sauce (like aioli or mustard)
Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:
Prepare the Turkey Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, basil, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the sliders tender.
Form the Patties
Divide the turkey mixture into six equal portions and shape them into patties, about 1 inch thick.
Cook the Patties
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Assemble the Sliders
On each slider bun, layer a turkey patty, a slice of avocado, lettuce, and a slice of tomato. Add your favorite sauce, if desired.
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your sliders warm and enjoy this delicious combination of flavors!
Now you're ready to dig in!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the turkey in a little lime juice before mixing. This will enhance the overall taste of the sliders!
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can mix the turkey and herb mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to form the patties and cook them fresh right before serving for the best texture.
If you have leftovers, store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are warmed through. This will help keep the patties moist and tasty.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful twist, serve these sliders with a variety of dipping sauces, such as homemade aioli, tangy mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. Offering different sauces creates an interactive dining experience, allowing everyone to customize their sliders to their liking.
Consider pairing your sliders with sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw on the side to balance the richness of the avocado. This not only adds texture and flavor diversity to your meal but also brings colorful elements to your plate, enhancing the visual appeal.
Variations to Try
Don't hesitate to try different toppings or variations here! Swapping out the turkey for ground beef or lamb can create a deliciously different flavor profile, especially when paired with bold toppings like feta cheese or tzatziki sauce. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, black bean burgers can be an excellent substitute.
You can also try varying the slider buns—switching to whole grain or garlic butter brushed sliders can add a new dimension to your meal. If you're gluten-free, lettuce wraps make for an excellent alternative, allowing all the flavor while keeping it light and fresh.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and will give you a slightly different flavor.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns.
→ Can these sliders be frozen?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked patties for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
→ What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative with toppings like cheese, pickles, or spicy mayo to suit your taste!
Herbed Turkey and Avocado Sliders
I'm thrilled to share this recipe for Herbed Turkey and Avocado Sliders! These sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering. Combining lean turkey, fresh herbs, and creamy avocado, they deliver a burst of flavors in every bite. Plus, the vibrant colors make for a beautiful presentation on any plate. I just know you'll enjoy this delightful twist on classic sliders as much as I do!
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 small slider buns
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
For Serving
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Your favorite sauce (like aioli or mustard)
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, basil, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the sliders tender.
Divide the turkey mixture into six equal portions and shape them into patties, about 1 inch thick.
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
On each slider bun, layer a turkey patty, a slice of avocado, lettuce, and a slice of tomato. Add your favorite sauce, if desired.
Serve your sliders warm and enjoy this delicious combination of flavors!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the turkey in a little lime juice before mixing. This will enhance the overall taste of the sliders!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g