Garlic-Herb Turkey Smash Burgers, Sweet Pickles

Steps

1. Make the quick pickles first: stir the cider vinegar, water, honey and half of the salt in a bowl until dissolved, then add the cucumber and red onion. Let stand at least 15 minutes while you prepare the rest.
2. Mix the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper and the remaining half of the salt in a small bowl to make the seasoning.
3. Divide the ground turkey into 8 loose balls without kneading, and keep them cold until cooking.
4. Toast the whole-wheat bread slices in a large dry skillet over medium heat until crisp, then set aside on plates.
5. Raise the heat to medium-high and add half of the canola oil to the skillet. Place 4 turkey balls in the pan, smash each flat with a sturdy spatula, and sprinkle with half of the seasoning.
6. Cook 2 to 3 minutes until deeply browned, flip, top each patty with a quarter of the cheddar, and cook 1 to 2 minutes more until the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate.
7. Add the remaining half of the canola oil and repeat with the other 4 turkey balls and the remaining half of the seasoning, finishing them without cheese, until they reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Spread the mustard over the toasted bread. On 4 slices, layer the spinach, a plain patty, a cheddar patty, and drained pickled cucumber and red onion, then close with the remaining slices and serve.