Garlic Burgers

I think I've said this before, but my absolute favorite summer meal is a juicy burger, baked beans and potato salad. In fact, since my birthday is in August, I usually request this for my "birthday meal".

I know, nothing fancy by any means, but it is just SO good. And very Midwestern if I do say so myself. I'm sure other folks around the country eat this meal as well, but for some reason it seems like a meal from the heartland.....even better when it comes with sweet corn! But that is for another post, as we are no where near sweet corn season. Bummer.

The other night I was craving this meal, but I was being lazy at the same time. I didn't want to "bake" my beans and I didn't want to "make" the potato salad. So, I bought them. But, I do have to give props to our local ma and pa grocery store. They have a great deli, and make a wonderful potato salad. Almost as good as my mom's. Not quite, but almost.

Since our grill is covered in snow, and I'm sure my husband would rather chew off his right arm then stand outside and grill, I did them inside on my stove-top grill pan. Not ideal, but pretty good!

Garlic Burgers

1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef

2 T. minced garlic

1 T. parsley

1 t. garlic salt

*Yes, these are called Garlic Burgers for a reason! If you like garlic, you'll love these.

Take clean hands and gently mix beef and seasonings. Shape into 4 patties. Make a small indent in the center of the patty (this will help to cook more evenly). These were pretty thick burgers, so I grilled for 8-10 min. on each side, so that they were almost well done.

My choice of toppings? Dill pickle relish, ketchup and mustard. If I would have had a sliced tomato on hand, it'd be there too!

We like Bush's Baked Beans, as it has few ingredients and you can actually READ what you are eating. Love that.

So that is how I dream of summer in the middle of winter. On my plate.

What is your favorite summer meal?