Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon of dried basil
- 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 cup of chicken broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and remove the turkey from its packaging. Make sure to remove the giblets and neck from the cavity if they are included.
Step 2: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and place it on a rack in a roasting pan. This will allow the air to circulate around the bird, ensuring an even cooking process.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful paste.
Step 4: Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat both the outside and inside of the bird. This will infuse the meat with delicious Italian flavors.
Step 5: Squeeze the juice of the lemons over the turkey and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will keep the turkey moist during the cooking process.
Step 6: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil, ensuring it is tented and not touching the skin. This will prevent the skin from becoming too dark or burnt.
Step 7: Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 15 minutes per pound. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices to enhance the flavors and keep it moist.
Step 8: After the recommended cooking time, remove the foil and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This is the safe temperature for poultry.
Step 9: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender roast.
There you have it – a simple yet delicious Italian roasted turkey recipe to elevate your Christmas dinner to a whole new level. Serve it with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and a flavorful gravy. Buon Appetito!