Name: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-489618H23M11S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 1 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped; 4 oranges, quartered; 4 lemons, quartered; 1/2 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 stick unsalted butter

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Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday; it’s a culinary marathon where turkey takes center stage, and this year, your star will be the Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey. Imagine the scent of citrus mingling with earthy sage wafting through your kitchen, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. This turkey doesn’t just look good; it practically sings a symphony of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance like they’re at a wedding reception. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Cranberry Turkey Sliders recipe.

If you’re anything like me, you might have memories of Thanksgivings past, where the turkey was either too dry or so overcooked that it could double as a doorstop. Fear not! With this recipe, you’ll not only avoid those culinary disasters but also create a dish that will leave your guests raving about your turkey for years to come. cilantro lime chicken variation So grab your apron and let’s dive into this flavor-packed delight!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey is easy to prepare, ensuring even novice cooks can impress their guests.
Its bright citrus notes paired with aromatic sage create a tantalizing flavor profile that elevates traditional turkey.
With its stunning golden-brown appearance, this dish makes an eye-catching centerpiece on any Thanksgiving table.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on festive occasions or as a comforting family dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey

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Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Whole Turkey: Choose a fresh or thawed turkey weighing between 12-14 pounds for optimal roasting.
Fresh Sage: Use about one cup of chopped fresh sage leaves for an aromatic herbaceous kick.
Citrus Fruits: A mix of oranges and lemons adds brightness; use four of each for stuffing and basting.
Olive Oil: About half a cup will help achieve that golden-brown skin we all crave.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on these!
Butter: One stick (unsalted) for basting; it adds richness and moisture to the turkey.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature throughout your bird while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Prepare The Turkey

Remove the giblets from inside the turkey cavity. Rinse the bird under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial if you want crispy skin!

Step 3: Season Generously

In a small bowl, mix olive oil with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped sage. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor impact.

Step 4: Stuff It Up

Slice two oranges and two lemons into wedges. Stuff these citrus slices along with the remaining sage inside the turkey cavity to infuse flavor from within as it roasts.

Step 5: Baste Away

Place your turkey on a roasting pan breast-side up. Melt the butter in a small saucepan and drizzle it over the bird. creamy zucchini sauce pairing Baste every thirty minutes during cooking for that perfect golden color.

Step 6: Roast & Rest

Roast in the oven for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let rest for at least twenty minutes before carving—this helps retain moisture!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any leftover juices from the roasting pan for the perfect finishing touch! Your guests won’t believe how juicy and flavorful this Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey turns out!

Now go ahead—embrace your inner chef this Thanksgiving with this show-stopping recipe!

You Must Know

This Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey offers a delightful twist on the classic dish.
The zesty citrus and aromatic sage create a mouthwatering flavor profile, making your holiday feast something to remember.
It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your turkey: season it generously with salt and sage, then let it rest for an hour. Next, while the turkey is resting, preheat your oven. Roast your turkey on a rack, basting every 30 minutes for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the citrus based on what you have. If you prefer lemons over oranges, go for it! You can also add garlic or onion to the cavity for extra flavor or try using rosemary instead of sage.

Storing & Reheating

Once cooled, store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that golden-brown skin, pat your turkey dry before seasoning.
This step is crucial for crispiness!
Always let your turkey rest after cooking; this helps retain moisture.
Finally, don’t skip basting; it adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.

The first time I made this Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey was a memorable family gathering where everyone raved about how juicy and flavorful it was; I felt like a culinary rockstar!

FAQs :

What are the key ingredients for Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey?

To prepare a delicious Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey, gather fresh turkey, citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, fresh sage leaves, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. These ingredients enhance the natural flavors of the turkey while infusing it with a refreshing zest. The combination of citrus and sage creates a unique flavor profile that is perfect for Thanksgiving. Additionally, consider using butter to baste the turkey for an extra layer of richness.

How long should I roast my turkey for Thanksgiving?

The cooking time for your turkey depends on its size. Generally, you should roast your turkey at 325°F (163°C) for about 13 to 15 minutes per pound if unstuffed. For a stuffed turkey, increase the time to 15 to 18 minutes per pound. It’s crucial to check the internal temperature to ensure safety; your turkey should reach at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh before serving.

Can I prepare the turkey ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare your Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey ahead of time! To do this, season your turkey with herbs and citrus overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. On Thanksgiving day, simply roast it according to your recipe instructions. Additionally, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for several days or frozen for longer storage.

What sides pair well with Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey?

Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving classic options like mashed potatoes with gravy or stuffing flavored with herbs. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots provide a colorful addition to your table. sweet potato hash recipe Cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory turkey perfectly. Don’t forget warm dinner rolls or cornbread!

Conclusion for Thanksgiving Recipes: Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey :

In conclusion, preparing a Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey elevates your Thanksgiving meal with vibrant flavors that delight family and friends alike. The blend of citrus fruits and aromatic sage enhances each bite while keeping the turkey juicy. Remember to plan cooking times based on weight and consider making some preparations in advance. With delightful sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, this recipe will surely become a cherished tradition on your holiday table!