Burgers are not typically noted for their healthfulness: Beef is high in cholesterol, refined wheat buns have little nutritional value, and ketchup is hardly equivalent to a fresh tomato. But if you switch to a leaner meat, add a whole-wheat bun and top with fresh veggies, a turkey burger can become a surprisingly healthy alternative that packs 36 grams of protein in only 450 calories.

Easy to make and full of flavor, serve these burgers up at your next barbecue. They also cook up nicely under your kitchen’s broiler on a stormy day.

Tarragon Grilled Turkey Burgers With Chipotle Mayo
Serves 4

For the mayo:
2 chipotle peppers
3 ounces silken tofu
3 tablespoons nonfat mayonnaise
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Blend all ingredients in a food processor; place in small bowl and set aside in refrigerator.

For the burgers:
1 pound ground turkey
¼ cup wheat germ
1 tablespoon chopped shallots
1 tablespoon chopped scallions
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 egg (or 2 egg whites), beaten
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon

Preheat broiler. In a large bowl, add all ingredients and mix well to combine. Shape mixture into 4 equal patties. Place patties on a broiler pan coated with nonstick cooking spray; broil 6 minutes on each side or until thoroughly cooked. Serve on a whole-wheat sesame bun with 1-tablespoon of chipotle mayo. Garnish with lettuce, tomato, onions and pickles.

Tags: Burger, dinner, grilled, Lunch, turkey