For the Burgers

1 lb ground beef (You can also use ground lamb, chicken, or turkey)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

3/4 teaspoon paprika

Pinch of cinnamon

1/4 cup chopped parsley

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Pita bread, halved and split so it is not too thick

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For the Easy Tzatziki

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/2 cup finely chopped mini cucumbers (from about 1 mini cucumber)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tablespoon minced dill

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Chopped Salad

2-3 Persian cucumbers, chopped

Bunch of Italian parsley, chopped

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil

Kosher salt + Fresh cracked black pepper to taste

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic, red onion, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
2. Make the tzatziki by stirring together the Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, olive oil, garlic, dill, lemon juice, white vinegar, and kosher salt. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. In a separate bowl, toss together the chopped Persian cucumbers, Italian parsley, feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the chopped salad.
4. Cut the pita bread in half and gently separate it so the pita is not too thick. Press a portion of the meat mixture firmly onto the inside of each pita half, spreading it into a thin, even layer. Make sure the meat is well adhered to the pita so it stays in place while cooking.
5. Heat a grill, griddle, or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pita burgers meat-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the meat develops a beautiful browned crust and is cooked through.
6. Flip and cook the pita side for another 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
7. Top each burger with a generous spoonful of tzatziki followed by the fresh chopped salad.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Pressing the meat firmly into the pita is the key to getting that signature smash burger crust while keeping everything together.
• Serve with simple Greek salad for a complete meal.