By Good Housekeeping

Spice up ordinary burgers this summer with these tasty burger toppings. Each topping recipe serves eight, unless otherwise noted.

Chips 'n' guac: Top each burger with 1 tablespoon guacamole, 1 tablespoon sliced pickled jalapenos and three tortilla chips.

The new Englander: Top each burger with one slice Cheddar cheese, three thin apple slices and three thin slices of red onion.

Creamy pesto: Beat together 6 ounces softened reduced-fat cream cheese, 3 tablespoons pesto sauce and 2 teaspoons lemon juice; divide among burgers. Top with shredded romaine lettuce.

The Vietnamese banh mi: Mix two medium sliced Kirby cucumbers, 1/2 cup shredded carrots, 1/3 cup seasoned rice vinegar, 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves and 1/2 teaspoon salt; chill 1 hour. Divide among burgers.

Island burger: Top each burger with 2 tablespoons shredded pepper Jack cheese, 1/4 green onion, thinly sliced and one fresh pineapple ring.

Pimento-cheese: Chop one green onion and 4 ounces pimentos (one small jar). Add 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, 1/3 cup mayo and 1/2 teaspoon each hot sauce and Worcestershire. Divide among burgers.

The So. Cal: Mash together two ripe avocados, 1/4 cup mayo and 1 crushed clove garlic. Divide among burgers. Top with shredded carrots and alfalfa sprouts.

Tapas burger: Blend until smooth 1 cup roasted red peppers, drained and patted dry, and 1/4 cup mayo. Top burgers with 1 cup grated Manchego cheese.

The spicy Elvis: Divide 3/4 cup crunchy peanut butter and 1/2 cup hot-pepper jelly among burgers. Top each with two slices cooked bacon.

Hot hoisin: Stir together 1/3 cup hoisin sauce, 3 tablespoons Sriracha. Divide among burgers. Top with fresh cilantro leaves.

Crunchy onion: Top each burger with 1 tablespoon onion dip and 1/4 cup canned fried onions (we love French's).

About the Author

Featured

Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez