Portobello Mushroom Burgers

There are few things I love more than mushrooms and mushrooms happen to be star of the grilling show this week as I have been experimenting with grilled portobello burgers. If you haven’t tried a portobello burger, they are a slice of heaven for a quick, easy, meat-free option. Portobello mushrooms offer a hearty option and can be topped with any variety of toppings you have that are occupying your fridge. Provolone, blue cheese, smoked gouda, cheddar, pesto, lettuce, spinach, arugula, tomatoes, pizza sauce, mozzarella…the possiblities with this burger are only as endless as your imagination.

With a little kick from garlic, a hint of tang from the balsamic vinegar, and a little salt & freshly ground pepper, this marinade can be pulled together in five minutes or less and takes only eight minutes on the grill. The flavor is meaty, juicy, and tangy. Piled with your favorite toppings, these are just as filling as any standard burger, but so much healthier. Throw these on your grill in lieu of your traditional burger and pull out the condiments and produce fun from the refrigerator for a portobello burger bonanza.

Recipe:

Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Ingredients:

• 2 large portobello mushroom caps, cleaned and stem removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• Freshly ground pepper
• 2 slices of cheese (provolone, blue cheese, smoked Gouda, cheddar, or mozzarella)
• Toppings (pesto, lettuce, spinach, arugula, tomatoes, pizza sauce, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes)
• 2 wheat rolls, toasted

Directions:

In a small bowl mix together you balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper. Place the portobello mushrooms in a plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Let the mushrooms marinate for 30-45 minutes. Preheat the grill. Brush the grill with a little olive oil and place the mushrooms step side down on the grill. Cook for four minutes. Flip the mushrooms over (stem side up) and cook for two more minutes. Top with your favorite cheese and let cook for two more minutes on the grill, until the cheese has melted. Place the mushrooms on a toasted bun and add your favorite toppings to your burger. Serve with a side of  chips, pretzels, or carrot sticks.

Yield: 2 Servings
Cook Time: 8 minutes