Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large Portobello mushrooms (about 4–5 inches wide)
- 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (aged preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- Salt & black pepper (sea salt and freshly ground pepper)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 cups fresh arugula (baby arugula works well)
- 4 whole-grain or brioche buns
- Optional toppings: balsamic glaze, vegan mayo, caramelized onions
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place Portobello mushrooms in a shallow dish or resealable bag, pour the marinade over them, and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 1 hour for deeper flavor).
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Brush the grill lightly with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Grill marinated Portobello caps gill-side down first for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until tender and juicy. Let rest for 2 minutes.
- Toast buns lightly for 1-2 minutes until golden. Place a grilled Portobello mushroom on the bottom half of each bun, top with sliced avocado, and add a handful of fresh arugula. Add optional toppings like balsamic glaze, vegan mayo, or caramelized onions if desired.
- Close burgers with the top bun and serve immediately. Pair with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Select large, firm Portobello caps with intact edges for the best texture.
- Marinate mushrooms for at least 15 minutes, but longer marination enhances flavor.
- Grill on high enough heat for char marks but avoid burning.
- Toasting buns adds texture and prevents sogginess.
- Add cheese during the last minute of grilling if desired (mozzarella, provolone, or vegan options).
- Pat mushrooms dry before marinating if they’re particularly wet.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Vegetarian, Vegan-Friendly
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg