I am drafting this post on September 6th, but you're reading it today, on September 21st. On September 6th, I am refusing to accept that Summer is on its way out and Fall (and close behind it the big evil W*****) is arriving here in St. Louis. As much as I'm loving the cool morning runs and the ability to turn on my oven without infuriating my heat sensitive husband, I'm in denial that the dog days of Summer are now just a memory, at least for the next 9 months or so.

Sigh.

In my denial, we'll keep grilling out, so long as Ryan's willing to man the grill. I can't control the temperatures or the fading daylight, but I can control the foods we eat and the memories we evoke. You'll see soups and casseroles and plenty of other comfort foods in the months to come, but for now do me a favor and cut me some slack while I indulge in summer-like foods for a bit longer. It's for my health and sanity, believe me!

If you're in the same boat as me, appease your summer-loving spirit with these turkey burgers. Stuffed with artichokes and cheese, they're a bit more exciting than your typical turkey burger. Next time I'll add even more cheese to the middle, or possibly melt some on top...more cheese is rarely a bad thing!

One Year Ago: Fruited Bulgur Salad
Two Years Ago: Eggplant Lasagna 

Artichoke Stuffed Turkey Burgers
from C+C Marriage Factory
Ingredients:
-1 lb lean ground turkey
-2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
-1/4 medium sweet onion, finely diced
-1 large pinch garlic salt
-ground black pepper
-2-3 artichoke hearts, diced
-4 oz. sliced Fontina cheese, cut into 4-1 oz. pieces (I subbed some Havarti that we had on hand)
-4 sandwich thins or burger buns
-additional desired toppings

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey, balsamic, onion, garlic salt, and pepper, mixing to combine well.
2. Divide mixture into 8 equal balls and flatten into thin patties. Top 4 of the patties with artichoke hearts and cheese, covering each patty with another patty and pressing together to seal.
3. Cook over medium heat until browned (approximately 8 minutes). Flip and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes. Remove from grill, place on buns, and top with desired toppings.