Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Turkey & Spinach Sliders?
They are juicy turkey patties infused with fresh spinach and spices, served on toasted pretzel rolls with a homemade garlic aioli and fresh arugula.
How many sliders does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 20 sliders, making it perfect for parties or large family meals.
What ingredients are needed for the garlic aioli?
To make the garlic aioli, you will need 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
What is the recommended cooking temperature for turkey patties?
The internal temperature of the turkey patties should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
How long should I cook the turkey sliders in a skillet?
Cook the patties over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Can I grill the turkey patties instead of using a skillet?
Yes, you can grill them on a countertop grill for about 4 minutes total for a healthier cooking method.
What kind of rolls are best for these sliders?
The recipe specifically calls for pretzel rolls to provide a soft and savory base for the turkey patties.
How do I prepare the rolls for the sliders?
Slice the pretzel rolls in half, place them cut side up on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes until lightly toasted.
What seasonings are used in the turkey mixture?
The mixture includes ground turkey, finely chopped spinach, green onions, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
How should I prepare the spinach for this recipe?
The fresh spinach should be finely chopped before being mixed into the ground turkey.
Can I make the garlic aioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the aioli ingredients, cover them, and refrigerate until you are ready to assemble the sliders.
What adds a refreshing crunch to these sliders?
Fresh arugula is added to the sliders during assembly to provide a peppery, refreshing crunch.
How do I ensure the patties fit the pretzel rolls?
Shape the turkey mixture into small patties with a diameter slightly smaller than the pretzel rolls, as they may shrink slightly during cooking.
What is the best side dish to serve with these sliders?
Crispy sweet potato fries are recommended as a balanced and satisfying accompaniment.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and easy recipe, suitable for busy weeknights or gatherings.
How many garlic cloves are needed in total for the whole recipe?
You will need 5 garlic cloves in total: 2 for the garlic aioli and 3 for the turkey patties.
How should I assemble the sliders?
Spread aioli on both halves of the toasted roll, place the patty on the bottom, top with arugula, and add the top bun.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
While the recipe specifies ground turkey, ground chicken is a suitable substitute that would work well with the spinach and garlic flavors.
Are these sliders healthy?
They are tagged as 'healthy burgers' because they incorporate lean turkey and fresh spinach, and can be grilled to reduce fat.
What is the purpose of the lemon juice in the aioli?
The lemon juice adds a zesty, bright flavor that helps balance the richness of the mayonnaise and turkey.
How do I mix the turkey and spinach?
It is recommended to mix the ingredients thoroughly with your hands to ensure the spinach and spices are evenly incorporated into the meat.
Can I use frozen spinach?
The recipe calls for fresh spinach; if using frozen, ensure it is completely thawed and squeezed dry to avoid soggy patties.
How many green onions do I need?
You will need 6 green onions, which should be thinly sliced before adding to the turkey mixture.
What spice provides the aromatic flavor in the patties?
Cumin is the primary spice used to give the turkey patties their aromatic flavor.
Should I salt the aioli to taste?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt for the aioli, or to taste.
Is the garlic aioli spicy?
The aioli is zesty and garlic-forward rather than heat-spicy, though the fresh garlic provides a sharp bite.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, you can shape the patties ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to cook.
Are pretzel rolls required?
While they provide a unique flavor, you can substitute them with standard slider buns or brioche rolls if pretzel rolls are unavailable.
What kind of turkey is used?
The recipe requires 3 lbs of ground turkey.
How do I toast the rolls if I don't want to use the oven?
You can toast the rolls on the skillet or grill for a minute or two until the cut sides are golden brown.