Grilling portobellos with a simple marinade, some garlic and herbs produces a meaty meal that should satisfy a craving for a fat- and cholesterol-laden Labor Day steak.

Think of how steaks can weigh you down so much that you can hardly party and play after the meal with your family and friends. This recipe includes the healthiness of whole-grain bread and the tasty kick of rosemary and thyme.

What’s more, mushrooms of any kind are a nutrient-dense food, low in calories and high in disease-battling phytochemicals. They're also a wonderful accent to other foods.

Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Makes 4 servings

4 large Portobello mushrooms
2 cloves garlic, sliced into very thin slivers
1 tsp. fresh rosemary or 1/2 tsp. dried, (optional)
1 tsp. fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp. dried, (optional )
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp. balsamic or red wine vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preheat broiler or grill.

Wipe mushrooms with damp cloth. Remove stems. With paring knife, make slits in tops of caps. Stuff slivers of garlic and herbs, if using, into slits.

In small bowl, whisk together oil and vinegar with salt and pepper to taste. Brush mushrooms with oil mixture. Place mushrooms, cap-side down, on pan and broil or grill until soft and brown, about 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Serve in place of a steak or with lettuce and tomato on toasted whole-grain buns.

Nutrition information, per serving: calories, 94; total fat, 7 g; saturated fat, 1 g; carbohydrate, 6 g; protein, 2 g; dietary fiber, 1 g; sodium, 8 mg.

Nubella Tip: Sink your teeth into Portobello "Pizzas"

•  Nubella’s Recipe Database and Healthy Cooking Center

•  Balanced Eating Blog—Nubella’s registered dietitian Theresa Stahl keeps you up to date with the latest healthy eating tips and recipes.

•  Nubella Recipe Message Board—share your secrets and get tips.

Comments on this article? Send them to MyComments.

Nubella News, a division of Marketing Technology Solutions, Inc., offers content intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We encourage our readers to seek prompt medical care for health issues and consult their physicians before starting a new diet, fitness regimen, or medical treatment.