Summer Basil Burgers

Chopped fresh basil leaves add a welcome spark to these hamburgers and wonderfully capture the taste of summer. Grilling brings out the best flavors in the ground beef as well as the basil. They're a pleasant surprise at a family cookout.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup basil leaves, loosely packed, minced
• 1⁄4 cup red onion, minced
• 1⁄4 cup  Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1⁄4 cup dry red wine
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons  garlic salt
• 2  lbs lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 8  slices monterey jack cheese (optional)
• 8  hamburger buns, split

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the basil, onion, bread crumbs, wine and garlic salt. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into eight patties.
2. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 160° and juices run clear. Top with cheese if desired. Serve on buns. Yield: 8 servings.