REMEMBERING AUGUST ~ 'BIG FAT' MEDITERRANEAN GARDEN BURGERS & FLORENTINE POTATO SALAD

AUGUST'S CROWN

Whilst August yet wears her golden crown,

Ripening fields lush-bright with promise;

Summer waxes long, then wanes, quietly passing,

Her fading green glory on to riotous Autumn.

~ Michelle L. Thieme

~ Sunflower fields (Hubbard Lake)

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'BIG FAT' MEDITERRANEAN GARDEN BURGERS

~ Perfect for a balmy early autumn day

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2 pounds ground sirloin

1 finely chopped medium onion

2 cloves finely minced garlic

12-oz. jar roasted peppers, drained and finely chopped

3 Tbsp. fresh bread crumbs

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup minced fresh basil

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh oregano

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary

salt & pepper to taste

1 cup drained and sliced artichoke hearts

6 slices provolone cheese

fresh favorite greens

6 large grilled hamburger rolls

Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise

1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

2 finely minced garlic cloves

1 Tbsp. drained capers

• Gently combine ground sirloin, onions, garlic, roasted peppers, bread crumbs, olive oil, herbs and salt & pepper. Carefully form into 6 large patties (do not overhandle).
• Combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic and capers for sauce.
• Grill burgers over hot coal until desired doneness. Top with cheese. Serve on grilled rolls, slathered in sauce and topped with sliced artichoke hearts and favorite greens. (Serves 6)

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FLORENTINE POTATO SALAD

~ Adapted from Southern Living

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3 lb. quartered red potatoes

coarse salt

2 cups shredded fresh baby spinach

1 cup sliced celery

1 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 lb. crumbled cooked bacon (reserve some for garnish)

1 bunch chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish)

juice and grated rind of 1 lemon

freshly ground cracked pepper

• Bring potatoes and salt to boil in large pot over high heat. Reduce heat and cook 20-25 minutes or until fork tender. Drain and toss with lemon juice, grated rind, salt & cracked pepper. Allow to cool slightly.
• Add celery, mayonnaise, parsley, bacon, green onions, and additional. Toss gently. Fold in spinach. Garnish with bacon and green onions. Chill at least 1 hour. (6-8 servings)