The Perfect Burger

Grilled Veggie Burgers

This is my version of the perfect burger. When I say “veggie burger”, I do not mean those thick patties filled with unidentifiable ingredients - I actually mean vegetables. I make different versions of this burger- sometimes more gourmet with baby arugula, fresh mozzarella and olive tapenade and other times very classic, with a little mustard, melted swiss cheese and crisp lettuce. Style your burger however you would like as long as you pile high the veggies.

Serves 6

Ingredients
- 6 soft rolls (either torta rolls, ciabatta rolls, or a hamburger buns)
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 large zucchini
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 yellow bell pepper
- 1 large onion (any kind)
- 1 large ripe beefsteak or heirloom tomato
- extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
- salt and pepper
Options
- sliced cheese
- homemade or store bought pesto
- homemade or store bought olive tapenade
- fresh baby arugula or lettuce

Pre heat a gas/ charcoal grill or grill pan. Cut the eggplant into 1/3 inch thick slices, lengthwise. Cut the zucchini at an angle 1/3 inch thick. Core and remove seed from the bell peppers and cut into strips. Peel the onion and slice into 1/3 inch rounds. Using a pastry brush, brush each side of the sliced vegetables with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Cut the rolls in half, if not already done so. Slice the tomatoes into 1/4 inch thick slices and set aside.
To cook the vegetables, place the prepared peppers on the hot grill and cook until soft, with dark grill marks, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Place the eggplant and zucchini on the grill and cook until tender with grill marks, about 5-6 minutes on each side. Grill the onion until completely soft and caramelized, about 10-11 minutes. Work in batches and have a large serving platter next to the grill to place the cooked veggies on. Sprinkle salt on the hot vegetables as they come off the grill.
If desired, place the bun halves on the grill to heat slightly.
To assemble the burgers, stack some of each of the grilled veggies, a slice of tomato and any other desired toppings. Serve warm.