Herb-Infused Roasted Turkey with Citrus & Apple
Elevate your holiday feast with this Herb-Infused Roasted Turkey with Citrus & Apple, a recipe crafted with love and tradition. This turkey became a family favorite at Easter, and after many successful roasts, I can confidently assure you that it retains incredible moisture and richness thanks to the careful selection of herbs and aromatics. The combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage, along with fresh lemon and sweet Braeburn apple, infuses the meat with delightful flavors. Using a Reynolds oven bag ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, but it's just as delectable when roasted directly in the oven. Create lasting memories and delicious moments with this show-stopping centerpiece at your next family gathering!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Turkey
1 (Thawed, giblets and neck removed)
Rosemary
4 sprigs (Fresh)
Thyme
4 sprigs (Fresh)
Sage
4 sprigs (Fresh)
Lemon
1 (Halved)
Apple
1 (Halved, Braeburn recommended)
Unsalted Butter
4 tablespoons (Softened)
Canola Oil
1/4 cup (For coating)
Kosher Salt
1 teaspoon (Or to taste)
Fresh Ground Pepper
1 teaspoon (Or to taste)
Reynolds Turkey Size Oven Cooking Bag
1 (Optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer to roast without an oven bag, consider setting the temperature to 325°F (163°C).
2
Thoroughly wash the turkey under cold running water and pat it dry inside and out with paper towels.
3
In the cavity of the turkey, place the fresh rosemary, thyme, sage, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, the halved lemon, and the halved apple. This will add depth of flavor and moisture.
4
Insert the remaining half of the lemon and the apple into the neck cavity of the turkey.
5
Truss the turkey securely with kitchen string to hold its shape and ensure even cooking.
6
Rub the canola oil all over the turkey's exterior, ensuring complete coverage, and generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
7
If using a Reynolds oven bag, place the turkey in the bag, as per package directions. Add about 1 tablespoon of water to the bag for added moisture during cooking.
8
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, monitoring the internal temperature. The turkey is fully cooked when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 180°F (82°C).
9
As a reference, a 15-pound turkey typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes; adjust your cooking time based on the size of your turkey.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein is a whole turkey, thawed with giblets and neck removed.
Which fresh herbs are required for the infusion?
The recipe requires 4 sprigs each of fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage.
What type of apple is recommended for roasting?
A Braeburn apple is recommended for its sweet flavor.
What temperature should the oven be set to if using an oven bag?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) when using a Reynolds oven bag.
What is the recommended oven temperature if roasting without a bag?
If roasting directly in the oven without a bag, consider a lower temperature of 325°F (163°C).
What is the target internal temperature for a fully cooked turkey?
The turkey is fully cooked when a meat thermometer reads 180°F (82°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
How long does it typically take to roast a 15-pound turkey?
A 15-pound turkey typically takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to roast.
What ingredients are placed inside the main cavity?
The cavity is filled with rosemary, thyme, sage, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, half a lemon, and half an apple.
What should be placed in the neck cavity of the turkey?
The remaining half of the lemon and the other half of the apple should be inserted into the neck cavity.
How do you prepare the turkey before adding seasonings?
Thoroughly wash the turkey under cold running water and pat it dry inside and out with paper towels.
Why is the turkey trussed with kitchen string?
Trussing holds the turkey's shape and ensures it cooks evenly.
What type of oil is used to coat the turkey's exterior?
Canola oil is used to rub all over the exterior of the turkey.
What seasonings are suggested for the turkey's skin?
The recipe calls for a generous seasoning of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
How much water should be added to the Reynolds oven bag?
Add approximately 1 tablespoon of water to the bag for added moisture.
What are the benefits of using a Reynolds oven bag?
Using an oven bag ensures even cooking, retains moisture, and allows for easy cleanup.
How much butter is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter.
How much canola oil is used?
The recipe specifies using 1/4 cup of canola oil for coating.
Can I use different types of citrus?
While this recipe specifies lemon, you can experiment with other citrus for different flavor profiles.
What holiday is this recipe specifically mentioned for?
The description mentions this turkey became a family favorite at Easter.
Where should the meat thermometer be inserted?
The thermometer should be inserted into the thickest part of the turkey's thigh.
Is the butter used on the outside or inside?
The 4 tablespoons of butter are placed inside the cavity of the turkey.
How many sprigs of sage are used?
The recipe uses 4 sprigs of fresh sage.
What type of salt is recommended?
Kosher salt is recommended for seasoning the turkey.
Does this recipe include nutritional facts?
No, nutritional information like calories, fat, and protein is not provided in this specific data.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients listed, including the optional oven bag.
Should the herbs be fresh or dried?
The recipe specifically calls for fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is preheating your oven to the appropriate temperature.
What provides the moisture in this recipe?
The moisture is provided by the butter, lemon, apple, and the use of an oven bag.
Is the apple peeled before being put in the turkey?
The instructions say to halve the apple, but do not specify peeling it.
Can this recipe be made without an oven bag?
Yes, it is just as delectable when roasted directly in the oven at a slightly lower temperature.