I need some space.

I need a break from the pumpkin lattes, mulled wine, and gingerbread houses. A much needed “brb” from holiday cheer and Christmas carolers. An escape from commercials about wrapping paper and the influx of December catalogues that come rushing through the mail slot every day.

To turn on the food network and see a show about something other than holiday cookies and festive cocktails would be nothing short of a miracle at this point. What I would give to hide the ice skates and dreidels and not hear a whisper about Dancer, Prancer or Vixen. Call me the Grinch who stole Christmas, but for today I’m getting away. Sorry good old St. Nick, but today I’m craving something completely unrelated to the upcoming holidays. Once I get my Asian turkey burger fix, then who knows, maybe I can return to spreading holiday cheer with the best of them.

Lucy Dana is a junior at Duke University, who just got home from a semester in Cape Town, South Africa. Read More…

**Recipe**

Asian Turkey Burger
Serves Four

Ingredients
1 tablespoon ginger root, grated
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
¼ cup + 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce
4 scallions, chopped
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
1 egg white
1.3 lb ground turkey
1 teaspoon olive oil, or cooking spray

Combine ginger, garlic, sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, scallions, cilantro, and egg white in a large mixing bowl. Mix in ground turkey.

Form into 4 burgers, about ¾ inch thick. Add olive oil or cooking spray to large skillet or brush burgers with olive oil for grilling. Cook 5-7 minutes on each side.

Serve hot on a bun with grilled pineapple when you need an escape from all of the holiday hype.