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).
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