Turkey burgers offer a lighter and leaner alternative to traditional beef burgers, making them a delicious and healthy choice. But what transforms a simple turkey burger into a complete and satisfying meal? The answer lies in the sides and complements you choose. This guide explores a wide array of options, catering to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring your turkey burger experience is anything but ordinary.
Classic Sides: The Tried and True
Sometimes, sticking with the classics is the best way to go. These sides are popular for a reason – they perfectly complement the flavor of turkey burgers and offer a familiar and comforting experience.
Fries: A Burger’s Best Friend
Let’s be honest, few things pair better with a burger than a side of fries. Whether you prefer classic shoestring fries, thick-cut steak fries, or even crispy sweet potato fries, they provide the perfect salty and starchy counterpoint to the savory turkey burger. Consider air frying your fries for a healthier option without sacrificing crispiness. Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to elevate your fries to the next level.
Coleslaw: A Cool and Creamy Contrast
Coleslaw brings a refreshing and tangy element to the plate. The cool, creamy texture and slightly sweet and sour flavor profile provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the turkey burger. You can opt for a traditional coleslaw with mayonnaise, or try a lighter version with a vinegar-based dressing for a healthier alternative. Add some shredded carrots, red cabbage, or even pineapple for extra flavor and texture.
Potato Salad: A Picnic Staple
Potato salad is another classic side dish that pairs exceptionally well with turkey burgers. Its creamy, comforting texture and savory flavor complement the lean protein of the burger. There are countless variations of potato salad, from traditional versions with mayonnaise, celery, and onions, to more adventurous options with dill, bacon, or even roasted vegetables. Choose a potato salad that suits your personal preferences and complements the other flavors in your meal.
Healthy and Light Options
If you’re looking to keep your meal on the lighter side, there are plenty of healthy and delicious options that pair perfectly with turkey burgers. These sides offer a boost of nutrients and won’t weigh you down.
Salads: A Burst of Freshness
A fresh salad is an excellent way to add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your turkey burger meal. Opt for a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, or get creative with ingredients like grilled vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. A Caesar salad, a Caprese salad, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad are all great choices. Focus on using fresh, seasonal ingredients for the best flavor.
Grilled Vegetables: A Flavorful and Nutritious Addition
Grilled vegetables offer a delicious and healthy way to add color and flavor to your plate. Zucchini, bell peppers, onions, asparagus, and corn on the cob are all excellent choices for grilling. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender and slightly charred. The smoky flavor of grilled vegetables complements the savory flavor of the turkey burger beautifully.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Roasted sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of flavors. Their natural sweetness and slightly earthy flavor create a delicious contrast to the savory turkey burger. Simply toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, and roast until tender and slightly caramelized. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of chili powder can add a unique twist to your roasted sweet potatoes.
Creative and Unique Sides
Looking to step outside the box? These creative and unique side dishes will add a touch of excitement and flavor to your turkey burger meal.
Avocado Fries: A Creamy and Crispy Indulgence
Avocado fries offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional fries. Slices of avocado are coated in breadcrumbs and baked or air-fried until crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or a lime crema.
Corn on the Cob with Flavored Butter: A Summertime Treat
Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that’s easy to customize with different flavored butters. Experiment with herb butters, garlic butter, chili lime butter, or even a brown sugar cinnamon butter. The flavored butter adds a rich and decadent touch to the sweet corn, making it a truly unforgettable side dish.
Quinoa Salad: A Healthy and Flavorful Grain Bowl
Quinoa salad is a versatile and nutritious side dish that can be customized with a variety of ingredients. Combine cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables, herbs, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and flavorful side dish. Consider adding ingredients like black beans, corn, avocado, or feta cheese to your quinoa salad.
Toppings and Condiments: The Finishing Touches
Don’t forget about the toppings and condiments! These are essential for customizing your turkey burger and adding the perfect finishing touches.
Classic Toppings: Lettuce, Tomato, Onion
These classic toppings are always a good choice. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thinly sliced onion add freshness and flavor to your turkey burger. Experiment with different types of lettuce, such as romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce.
Cheese: Melted Perfection
Cheese adds richness and flavor to any burger. Cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, and provolone are all great choices for turkey burgers. Consider trying a different cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
Sauces and Spreads: The Flavor Boost
The right sauce or spread can take your turkey burger to the next level. Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and sriracha mayo are all popular choices. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sauces and spreads – try a homemade pesto, a spicy aioli, or a tangy cranberry sauce.
Drinks to Complement Your Meal
No meal is complete without a refreshing beverage. Here are a few drink suggestions that pair well with turkey burgers.
Iced Tea: A Classic Choice
Iced tea is a classic choice that pairs well with almost any meal. Whether you prefer unsweetened tea, sweet tea, or a flavored tea, it’s a refreshing and hydrating option. Add a lemon wedge or a sprig of mint for extra flavor.
Lemonade: A Sweet and Tangy Refresher
Lemonade is another refreshing and thirst-quenching option that complements the savory flavors of a turkey burger. Make your own lemonade with fresh lemons, water, and sugar, or buy a pre-made version.
Craft Beer: A Sophisticated Pairing
For a more sophisticated pairing, consider serving your turkey burger with a craft beer. A light lager or a pale ale can complement the flavors of the burger without overpowering them. Experiment with different beer styles to find your perfect match.
| Side Dish | Description | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potato Fries | Crispy sweet potato sticks, baked or fried. | Sweetness complements savory burger. |
| Coleslaw (Vinegar-based) | Shredded cabbage and carrots in a tangy dressing. | Provides a refreshing contrast. |
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Grilled corn with butter and seasonings. | Classic summer flavor pairing. |
| Quinoa Salad | Quinoa mixed with vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing. | Healthy and flavorful grain option. |
Consider Dietary Restrictions
When planning your turkey burger meal, it’s important to consider any dietary restrictions that you or your guests may have. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that cater to various dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Options
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, be sure to choose gluten-free buns, sauces, and side dishes. Gluten-free buns are readily available at most grocery stores. For side dishes, opt for options like salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted sweet potatoes.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While turkey burgers themselves are not vegetarian or vegan, you can easily create a vegetarian or vegan meal by serving them with plant-based side dishes. Salads, grilled vegetables, and roasted sweet potatoes are all excellent choices. You can also find vegetarian or vegan burger alternatives at most grocery stores.
Low-Carb Options
If you’re following a low-carb diet, skip the bun altogether and serve your turkey burger on a bed of lettuce. For side dishes, choose low-carb options like salads, grilled vegetables, or avocado slices.
Seasonal Considerations
The best sides for turkey burgers can also depend on the season.
Summer
In the summer, take advantage of fresh produce and grill-friendly options. Corn on the cob, watermelon salad, and grilled vegetables are all perfect choices for a summer turkey burger meal.
Fall
In the fall, embrace the flavors of the season with sides like roasted butternut squash, apple coleslaw, and sweet potato fries.
Winter
In the winter, warm up with comforting sides like mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and hearty soups.
Spring
In the spring, enjoy fresh and vibrant sides like asparagus salad, pea soup, and grilled artichokes.
Final Thoughts
With so many delicious and versatile options to choose from, there’s no limit to the ways you can customize your turkey burger meal. Whether you prefer classic sides, healthy options, or creative creations, the key is to choose sides that complement the flavor of the turkey burger and satisfy your personal preferences. So, get creative, experiment with different flavors and textures, and enjoy your delicious and satisfying turkey burger meal!
What are some healthy side dishes that pair well with turkey burgers?
For a health-conscious meal, consider pairing your turkey burgers with roasted vegetables. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and carrots are all excellent choices. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor. Season with herbs like rosemary or thyme, a touch of olive oil, and salt and pepper for a simple yet satisfying side.
Another great option is a vibrant salad. A mixed green salad with grilled corn, avocado, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and essential nutrients. You could also opt for a quinoa salad or a black bean salad for added protein and fiber, making your meal even more filling and beneficial for your well-being.
What are some classic comfort food sides to serve with turkey burgers?
When craving comfort food, you can’t go wrong with classics like creamy mac and cheese or crispy french fries. Mac and cheese provides a rich and satisfying contrast to the leaner turkey burger, while french fries offer that familiar salty and crunchy texture that everyone loves. Both options are guaranteed to please, especially on a chilly evening.
Another comforting side is coleslaw. Whether you prefer a creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw, the cool and tangy flavors complement the savory turkey burger beautifully. Its refreshing crunch also cuts through the richness of the burger, providing a balanced and satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
What kind of sauces and toppings complement turkey burgers?
Beyond the usual ketchup and mustard, there are many flavorful sauces that enhance turkey burgers. A spicy sriracha mayo adds a kick, while a creamy avocado ranch provides a cool and refreshing contrast. Consider exploring homemade aiolis or pesto for a more sophisticated taste. These sauces elevate the burger experience significantly.
Toppings like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, and sautéed mushrooms add depth and texture to turkey burgers. Crispy bacon, of course, is always a welcome addition. For a healthier option, consider adding sprouts or microgreens for a boost of nutrients and a fresh, crunchy element that complements the other flavors.
Are there any international-inspired side dishes that would pair well?
Absolutely! Consider a Mediterranean couscous salad with chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon-herb dressing. The light and refreshing flavors of the salad will complement the richness of the turkey burger without being too heavy. This combination offers a flavorful and healthy international twist.
Another excellent option is Mexican street corn salad (elote). The combination of grilled corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice creates a creamy, spicy, and tangy flavor profile that pairs incredibly well with turkey burgers. The vibrant flavors offer a delightful contrast and a unique culinary experience.
What beverages pair best with turkey burgers and their sides?
Iced tea is a refreshing and versatile beverage that pairs well with turkey burgers and a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer sweetened or unsweetened, the cool and crisp taste of iced tea complements the savory flavors of the burger and the richness of the sides, making it a great all-around choice.
Craft beer, particularly a light lager or an IPA, can also be an excellent pairing. The hops in an IPA can cut through the richness of the burger and cleanse the palate, while a light lager offers a more subtle complement. Consider the specific flavors of your burger and sides when choosing your beer for the best possible pairing.
How can I make my turkey burger meal more visually appealing?
Presentation is key to enhancing the overall dining experience. Arrange your turkey burger and sides artfully on the plate, using contrasting colors and textures to create visual interest. Garnish the burger with fresh herbs or a sprig of parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Don’t be afraid to get creative and use different serving dishes.
Consider using colorful napkins and place mats to add vibrancy to your table setting. A well-presented meal not only tastes better but also creates a more enjoyable and memorable experience for you and your guests. Pay attention to the details and make your turkey burger meal a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
What are some lighter alternatives to traditional burger buns?
For a lighter and healthier option, consider using lettuce wraps instead of traditional burger buns. Large lettuce leaves, such as butter lettuce or romaine, provide a crisp and refreshing alternative that significantly reduces the carbohydrate content of your meal. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a turkey burger without the added calories from bread.
Another alternative is using portobello mushroom caps as buns. Grilled portobello mushrooms offer a meaty texture and a savory flavor that complements the turkey burger beautifully. They are also a good source of nutrients and are naturally low in calories. This option is perfect for those looking for a gluten-free or vegetarian alternative to traditional buns.