Planning a Memorial Day barbecue? Here’s a super-easy burger recipe that “kicks it up a notch,” as Chef Emeril Lagasse likes to say. All of the ingredients are readily available at a market that carries organic food.

A reminder from rancher Tom Perini, owner of Perini Ranch Steakhouse (“one of America’s great rural restaurants,” per Gourmet magazine) and author of Texas Cowboy Cooking: Treat beef like a king.

“Take beef out of the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes prior to cooking,” he advises, “as this helps bring the meat to room temperature.”

Wild West Picante Burgers

Serves 4

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 cup picante sauce or chunky salsa
• 4 hamburger rolls

1. Thoroughly mix beef and picante sauce. Shape firmly into four patties, 1/2″ thick.
2. Grill patties 10 minutes or until done, turning once and brushing often with additional picante sauce.
3. Serve on rolls with additional picante sauce.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Pace Foods