Savory Herb-Roasted Turkey

Prep Time: 20-30 mins Cook Time: 2.5-3 hrs Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 1 small turkey (8-10 lbs)

- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter)

- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 lemon, zested and quartered

- 1 onion, quartered

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth (for basting)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Remove the turkey giblets, if included. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels inside and out.

3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or melted butter), chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, lemon zest, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast with your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Rub half of the herb mixture under the skin, directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining herb mixture all over the outside of the turkey.

5. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters and onion quarters for extra flavor.

6. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.

7. Pour 1 cup of broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist while roasting. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning in the beginning. 

8. Roast the turkey for 2.5 to 3 hours (about 15-18 minutes per pound), or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

9. Baste the turkey every 45 minutes with the pan juices to keep it moist.

10. For the last 30 minutes of roasting, remove the foil to allow the turkey skin to crisp up and turn golden brown.  

11. Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.

Optional Gravy:

Use the pan drippings to make a simple gravy. Just strain the drippings, heat in a saucepan, and whisk in a bit of flour or cornstarch for thickness.

This turkey recipe is flavorful with herbs and ensures a moist and savory bird for your Thanksgiving feast!