Venison Burgers over Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese, Avocado, and Mustard Vinaigrette – It’s a lean, flavor-packed twist on your classic burger night. Fab Four-style, for max satisfaction and blood sugar balance.
This Venison Burger Over Arugula Salad pairs juicy, spice-rubbed venison burgers with peppery greens and all the creamy textures from goat cheese and avocado – tied together with a tangy mustard vinaigrette.
It’s comfort food meets nutrient density.
Benefits of Venison Meat
Venison is one of the most underrated protein sources – and it deserves a spot on your table.
My personal favorite venison is Maui Nui. When compared to beef, Maui Nui venison is nutritionally impressive to say the least:
- Leaner, but nutrient-dense – Lower in fat than beef, yet rich in protein, iron, and zinc.
- Higher vitamin content – Maui Nui venison has 1.5x more vitamin A and choline than beef, 5x more vitamin E, and 2x more B vitamins.
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Omega-3 rich – Grass-fed wild venison contains higher levels of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids compared to grain-fed meats. In fact, it has anywhere from 8-64x the omega-3 content of beef!
Not only that, but venison has added physical and environmental benefits, too:
- Blood sugar support – High-protein meals slow the release of glucose into your bloodstream, helping you stay energized and avoid that post-meal crash.
- Ethically and sustainably sourced – Harvested from regenerative farms, venison has a lower environmental footprint than conventional beef.
Right now, Maui Nui is offering a free 12-pack of their jerky sticks with your first order of $79 or more. Just go to mauinuivenison.com/kelly to grab yours!
The Fab Four in Action
This dish is a perfect example of how protein, fat, fiber, and greens work together to balance blood sugar, keep cravings at bay, and promote satiety.
- Protein – Venison brings 25-30 grams of high-quality protein per serving, fueling muscle repair, hormone production, and steady energy.
- Fat – Avocado and olive oil from the vinaigrette deliver healthy monounsaturated fats, while goat cheese adds a touch of satiating dairy fat. Fats slow digestion, helping you feel full longer.
- Fiber – Arugula and avocado offer fiber that supports digestion, slows carbohydrate absorption, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Greens – Peppery arugula isn’t just flavor – it’s loaded with phytonutrients, vitamin K, and antioxidants that support detoxification and cardiovascular health.
This Fab Four combo makes for a meal that’s as functional as it is flavorful.
The Powerful Health Benefits of Arugula
Arugula isn’t just a garnish – it’s a leafy green with big health benefits.
- Detox-supportive – Rich in glucosinolates, compounds that support liver detox pathways.
- Bone health – High in vitamin K, essential for calcium regulation and bone density.
- Digestive support – The slight bitterness in arugula stimulates digestive enzymes, priming your body for optimal nutrient absorption.
Plus, that peppery bite pairs perfectly with creamy goat cheese and rich venison.
Make It Your Way:
- Swap the goat cheese for feta or omit for a dairy-free version.
- Add roasted sweet potatoes on the side for extra complex carbs if you need more fuel.
- Use bison, grass-fed beef, or turkey if venison isn’t available.
Final Tips for Best Flavor
- Let your barbecue rub shine by not overpowering it with too much salt.
- Grill onions just until golden and soft; caramelization brings out the sweetness.
- Serve with wedges of lemon alongside for extra brightness and a pop of fresh flavor, if you like.
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful, and healthy barbecue-inspired venison burger salad!
