Portobello Mushroom & Pesto Burger w/ Truffle & Parmesan Potatoes

I could not resist posting these delicious recipes! I would eat this over a real burger ANY day! ...& That means a lot coming from a meat lover like me!

The "Burger" Ingredients:

• 2 large portobello mushroom caps; stems & 'gills' (...the brown stuff next to the stem) removed 
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves; finely minced (...or minced garlic in a jar works too!)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh pesto
• Whole wheat buns

Optional Toppings: 

• Provolone cheese 
• Goat cheese 
• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Avocado 
• Roasted Red Peppers 

How To: 

1. In a large zip-lock bag or bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, salt & pepper. 
2. Place the cleaned mushroom caps in the bag and marinate for 20-30 minutes. 
3. Place mushroom caps, stem side up, into heated skillet. Cook first side for 5 minutes or just until browned and softened. 
4. Using a spatula, flip mushroom caps over and cook stem side for about 3 minutes or until the mushroom caps are fully cooked; softened but still slightly firm, and golden brown. 
5. Turn off heat and place sliced cheese over the mushrooms to melt.
6. Place mushroom cap + cheese on a toasted bun w/pesto and any other optional ingredients of your choice! 

Potato Ingredients: Preheat oven to 400 degrees 

• 4-5 large red potatoes; diced 
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• Minced garlic 
• Salt
• 3 teaspoons Truffle Oil 
• Parmesan Cheese

How To: 

1. In a large baking dish, combine diced potatoes, olive oil, garlic, & salt; mix well. 
2. Place in oven on 400 degrees for about 45 minutes or until potatoes begin to feel soft. 
3. Once the potatoes are cooked, turn the broiler on high for about 5 minutes; tossing every 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. KEEP A CLOSE EYE, food can easily burn under the broiler!! 
4. Place crispy potatoes in a large bowl and toss with Truffle Oil & Parmesan cheese. 
5. CAUTION: You may die and go to heaven. ;) 

...Pair with a fancy beer & call it a day! This recipe serves 2.