B.L.A.T. (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, and Tomato) Burger

I often resort to burgers when I'm in need of a fast dinner fix. But I stay clear of any burger that comes through my front seat window in a brown paper bag. It might be quick and cheap, but you pay for what you get (and it probably ain't much beef). I won't start on my tirade of why I hate fast food and how disgusting it really is. Just know that you can do better at home. With a little bit more effort you can have a much fresher, tastier, healthier burger. Even bacon is allowed!

I'm still using local grass-fed beef purchased at the farmers market. It comes frozen and has kept well in my freezer all winter long! I'm on my last lb. though, so I'm counting down the days until the end of April when the farmers market re-opens! Local and organic is the best way to go with beef. It's naturally extremely lean (and still ridiculously tender as long as you don't overcook it!) and a lot better for you. Winter definitely doesn't stop me from grilling- especially since I can do it year-round indoors. Break out the grill pan and make yourself a juicy beefy burger. Pile it high with fresh toppings on a homemade wheat bun. You'll see what I mean.

INGREDIENTS
1/2 lb. lean ground beef (seasoned with several dashes of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and paprika)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 strips bacon, cooked until crisp
lettuce, rinsed and dried
1/2 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced (optional)
tomato, thinly sliced
red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 whole wheat hamburger buns (I used onion rolls)
ketchup, for serving
mustard, for serving

DIRECTIONS
1. In a medium bowl, season ground beef with spices, salt, and pepper. Gently work the seasonings into the meat with your hands. (Be careful not to overwork the beef or it will be tough.) Form into 2 patties. At this point they can be wrapped in plastic and refrigerated until ready to grill.

2. Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill burgers to desired "doneness". Place burgers on hamburger buns and top with bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato, and red onion (optional). Serve with ketchup and mustard.

Serves 2.

(A Jessie original.)