Mediterranean Style Burgers with Canadian Feta and Radish and Cucumber Tzatziki

Directions

Radish and Cucumber Tzatziki: In small bowl, combine yogurt cheese, cucumber, radish, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic; refrigerate (can be prepared up to two days ahead.)

In large bowl, gently combine beef, bread crumbs, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and egg. Shape ½ of the beef mixture into four square-shaped patties; make an indentation in the centre of each square; fill each indentation with approximately 2 tbsp (30 mL) crumbled Canadian Feta cheese. Make 4 squares with remaining beef mixture; press one square on top of each Feta filled patty; press to seal in the Canadian Feta cheese filling.

Preheat barbecue to medium-high. Place burgers on greased grill; close lid and grill, turning once, for about 5 to 6 min per side or until digital thermometer inserted sideways into centre reads 160° F (71° C).

Place patties into pita bread pockets; top with Radish and Cucumber Tzatziki, chopped tomato and lettuce.

Preparation time: 10-12 minutes        
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Refrigeration time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings and 1-½ cups (375 mL) Radish and Cucumber Tzatziki

Cooking Tips: For yogurt cheese:  Spoon 2 cups (500 mL) 3% plain yogurt into a paper towel – or fine cheesecloth-lined sieve and set over a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hr (the longer it stands, the thicker it becomes.) Discard the liquid (whey) left in the bowl.
Use additional Radish and Cucumber Tzatziki as a dip or as a spread for sandwiches.

Variation: Add ½ tsp (2 mL) dried oregano to Canadian Feta cheese before stuffing burgers.

Recipe and Photo courtesy Dairy Farmers of Canada.
Visit dairygoodness.ca for more recipes.