Main Dish
California Burger with Avocado

About this dish
This California burger brings together a juicy beef patty, creamy avocado, and tangy pickled onions on a toasted bun, capturing the easy-going spirit of West Coast cuisine. It’s the perfect summer grilling recipe for burger lovers who want something fresh and satisfying.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
ground beef (80/20)
protein680g
Imperial measurement: 1.5 lbs
salt
spice1 tsp
black pepper
spice1/2 tsp
garlic powder
spice1/2 tsp
burger buns
grain4 buns
ripe but firm avocado
fruit2
red onion, thinly sliced
vegetable1 small
apple cider vinegar
liquid60 ml
Imperial measurement: 1/4 cup
water
liquid60 ml
Imperial measurement: 1/4 cup
sugar
other1 tbsp
lettuce leaves
vegetable4 large leaves
tomato, sliced
fruit1 large
mayonnaise (optional)
fat2 tbsp
Method
Make quick pickled onions
10 minutesIn a small bowl, combine sliced red onion, apple cider vinegar, water, and sugar. Stir and let sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the rest.
Season and form patties
5 minutesDivide ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape into patties slightly larger than the buns, pressing a small indent in the center. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Grill the patties
10 minutesPreheat grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F). Grill patties for about 4 minutes per side for medium, or until desired doneness. In the last minute, place buns cut-side down on the grill to toast lightly.
Assemble burgers
2 minutesSpread mayonnaise on the bottom bun if using. Layer lettuce, tomato, the cooked patty, sliced avocado, and drained pickled onions. Close with the top bun.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Small bowl
- Cutting board and knife
Nutrition facts
Tips
- For the juiciest patties, handle the meat as little as possible and avoid pressing down on them with a spatula while grilling.
- Pickled onions can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for even more flavor.
- Use a ripe but firm avocado: it should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy.
- If you don't have a grill, cook the patties in a cast iron skillet over high heat.
Serving suggestions
- Serve with sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or crunchy pickles.
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Recipe by
Hannah Parker
Specialises in American cuisineHannah makes apple pie with a lattice crust. She won a county fair ribbon at age 12.
Describe yourself in three words: Wholesome, lattice queen, apple-y.