Lemon Glazed Turkey

As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen transforms into a bustling hub of activity, filled with the aromas of traditional recipes and joyful gatherings. Among the many iconic dishes that grace our tables during this festive time, the turkey stands out as a centerpiece, embodying the spirit of celebration. While classic roast turkey recipes have their charm, introducing a unique and flavorful twist can elevate your holiday feast to new heights. Enter the Zesty Lemon Glazed Turkey—a dish that not only captures the essence of the season but also tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant flavors and aromatic qualities.

Transform your holiday feast with a Zesty Lemon Glazed Turkey that's sure to steal the show! This refreshing twist on a classic roast turkey is infused with bright lemon flavors, honey, and Dijon mustard, creating a perfectly balanced glaze. With aromatic herbs and juicy, tender meat, this turkey will impress your family and friends. Perfect for any festive gathering, this recipe is a delicious way to elevate your culinary celebrations and make lasting memories around the table.

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Ingredients

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

Zest and juice of 3 large lemons

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Salt to taste

Fresh lemon slices and thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions

Preparation of Turkey:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

- Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove any giblets from the cavity.

Making the Lemon Glaze:

- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until it forms a smooth paste.

Applying the Glaze:

- Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey over the breast by sliding your fingers underneath it. Be careful not to tear the skin.

- Rub half of the lemon glaze under the skin and the remaining half all over the outside of the turkey.

Preparing for Roasting:

- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.

- Season the turkey cavity with salt and any leftover herbs. You can also place some lemon slices and thyme sprigs inside for extra flavor.

Roasting the Turkey:

- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thighs.

- Remove the foil in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to get crispy and golden brown.

Basting:

- Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan juices to keep it moist and enhance the glaze.

Resting the Turkey:

- Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more succulent turkey.

Serving:

- Carve the turkey and serve it on a platter, garnished with fresh lemon slices and thyme sprigs. Drizzle some of the pan juices over the carved turkey for added flavor.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 3.5 hours | 8-10 servings