BURGERS WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATOES* 

2 lbs. ground beef
2 Tbsp. oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped
2 tsp. finely grated lemon peel
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 c. mayonnaise (can use light, but not free)
1 1/2 tsp. dried basil, or 2 Tbsp. snipped fresh, if you have it
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
onion hamburger buns


Prepare grill.

In a medium bowl, combine beef, tomatoes, lemon peel, salt, and pepper. Mix lightly, but be sure to combine well. Shape into desired number of hamburger patties.

In the meantime, combine mayonnaise, basil, and jalapeno pepper, and mix well.

Grill the burgers on an uncovered grill at medium heat until desired doneness. For the last minute of grilling, place the cut buns (cut side down) on the grill to toast. Remove both buns and burgers.

Place the burgers on the bottom of the bun, and spread the mayonnaise mixture on the top. Add other toppings if desired. Serve immediately.



*Adjust this recipe according to your needs. If you think the kids won't eat any burger this unusual, then half the recipe and serve them regular hamburgers. If you're having guests- adjust for them as well!

ORZO PASTA SALAD


1-1/2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
1/4 cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fine
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. basil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper


Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well and pour into a serving bowl.  Place sun-dried tomatoes in a medium bowl and cut into small pieces. (You can also use a food processor.) Add olive oil, oregano, basil, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper; stir. Pour over top of orzo pasta and stir through to coat.