You love burgers, but you're watching your waistline. That doesn't mean you have to resort to eating a dry patty of meat. Sure, you'll want to ditch the chili, the cheese and the mayo. However, you can still enjoy a burger that packs a mean punch without overdoing it. Dress up your burger with healthy extras. Lettuce, pickles, tomato, avocado, salsa, mustard and ketchup are all acceptable toppings that won't tack on a ton of fat and calories. Get creative with different types of meat, too. Ground turkey and chicken make great lean substitutes, but be choosy. Some varieties pack as much fat as ground beef, so check the label to make sure you're getting the leanest cut. Lean meats and veggie burgers can be dry, so additions like fresh bread crumbs, broths and a splash of olive oil help add flavor and moistness.
Try other seasonings to pack a flavor punch. Teriyaki is a super addition for an Asian flavor. Give taco seasonings like chili powder, chipotle or cumin a try for a burger with Mexican flair. If you're concerned about carbs, then toss the usual bun and serve your burger over salad. If you need the bread, then try wrapping up the burger in a lower-carb pita or tortilla. Serve plenty of veggies and fixings on the side, and you'll never miss all that artery-clogging fat and grease.