Italian Ciabatta Burgers with Mozzarella Cheese and Sweet-and-Tangy Salad

Step 1

Wash and dry all produce. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Halve, peel, and thinly slice the onion. Heat a large drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and 2 teaspoons sugar. Cook, tossing, for 6-8 minutes, until caramelized. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the pan and set aside. TIP: For a bolder flavor, add 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar to the pan after the onions are caramelized, then reduce until syrupy.

Step 2

Mince or grate 1/2 teaspoon garlic. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 Tablespoon tomato paste, 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 Tablespoons olive oil, and as much of the garlic as you like. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Form the ground beef into two patties, and season on both sides with salt and pepper. In the same pan, heat a large drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the patties. Cook 2-4 minutes per side, until almost cooked to desired doneness. Top with mozzarella cheese. Cover the pan for another minute, until the cheese melts.

Step 4

Toast the ciabatta: While the burgers cook, halve the ciabatta rolls. Place in the oven to toast 3-5 minutes.

Step 5

Toss the salad: Toss the spring mix into the vinaigrette, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6

Place each burger inside a bun, then top with the caramelized onion and a bit of sweet-and-tangy salad. Serve the remaining salad on the side and enjoy!