Add flavor to your next cookout with this Mediterranean Burger with Tzatziki. These patties combine vegetables, tangy feta, and sun-dried tomatoes for a bright, fresh twist on the classic burger. The cooling tzatziki sauce balances the savory patties, and best of all you don’t need a grill — a hot skillet works perfectly.
If you love a traditional grilled burger, this recipe offers a flavorful alternative to rotate into your meal plan. Fresh herbs, creamy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, and a blend of ground meats make these burgers satisfying without feeling heavy. They come together quickly and are great for weeknight dinners, outdoor gatherings, or meal prep.
Mediterranean Burger – Featured Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: The base for the tzatziki; it brings creaminess and tang.
- Cucumber: Adds cooling crunch to both the sauce and as a topping.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the tzatziki with a citrus lift.
- Fresh mint: A Mediterranean herb that complements the yogurt and cucumber.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Provide concentrated tomato flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh spinach: Finely chopped to add moisture, color, and extra nutrients to the patties.
- Ground meat: A mix of ground chicken and ground pork in this recipe keeps the patties light and flavorful; other ground meats can be used.
- Feta cheese: Crumbly, salty, and tangy—feta adds a classic Mediterranean note.
What can I swap for spinach?
If you prefer, swap the spinach for chopped kale. Kale offers similar nutrition and a slightly more robust texture and flavor when cooked.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes. Use any combination of ground pork, ground chicken, ground beef, or ground turkey. Keep in mind that beef and pork will increase the fat content and change the flavor profile slightly.
Delicious Mediterranean Burger Toppings
These burgers are delicious topped simply with sliced cucumber and red onion, but you can customize them freely. Ideas to try:
- Sliced tomatoes: Add juicy freshness.
- Hummus: A creamy spread that pairs beautifully with tzatziki for extra flavor.
- Kalamata olives: Sliced, they bring a salty, briny contrast.
- Roasted red peppers: Sweet and smoky, jarred or homemade both work well.
Here’s a tip!
Don’t overwork the meat. Combine ingredients gently and form patties without packing them tightly to keep the texture tender and juicy.
How to Store and Reheat
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping once for even heating.
Our Favorite Pairings for Mediterranean Burgers
Serve these burgers with crispy fries, air-fried zucchini fries, or sweet potato fries for a comforting side. For lighter options, pair them with a Mediterranean couscous salad or a grilled corn salad with feta. A tart, fruity iced tea or a hibiscus-forward beverage complements the flavors nicely.
Mediterranean Burger Recipe
This Mediterranean burger with tzatziki is a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic. It blends ground meat, vegetables, and feta with a cool cucumber-mint sauce—ideal for summer or any time you want a bright, satisfying burger.
Ingredients
Cucumber Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons grated cucumber
- 2 cloves grated garlic
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 5–6 fresh mint leaves, torn
Burger
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (including some of the oil)
- 1/2 white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 lb ground pork
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Other
- Sliced cucumbers
- Red onion rounds
- 5–6 burger buns
Instructions
- Make the cucumber sauce first: combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, grated garlic, lemon juice, and torn mint in a bowl. Stir to combine, then chill in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes (with a bit of their oil), diced onion, and garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add the spinach to the pan and cook until about three-quarters wilted. If needed, add the spinach in batches to avoid overcrowding. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a bowl and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Once the vegetable mixture has cooled slightly, add the ground chicken, ground pork, crumbled feta, and salt. Mix gently with your hands just until combined—avoid overworking the meat.
- Form the mixture into 5–6 patties and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 teaspoon oil. Depending on pan size, cook 1–2 patties at a time. Cook each patty 3–5 minutes per side, until fully cooked through and browned.
- Assemble the burgers: place a patty on each bun, top with red onion rounds, cucumber slices, and a generous spoonful of the chilled cucumber sauce. Finish with the top bun and serve.
Tips & Notes
- Substitute spinach with kale if preferred.
- Use any combination of ground pork, chicken, beef, or turkey. Pork and beef will increase fat content and richness.
- Grilling option: preheat the grill to 375–400°F. Place a sheet of foil over direct heat, then grill patties on the foil for about 6–7 minutes per side (time varies by thickness). Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Per serving (approximation): Calories: 370 kcal • Carbohydrates: 25 g • Protein: 27 g • Fat: 18 g • Fiber: 2 g • Sugar: 4 g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Photography by: The Wooden Skillet