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Savory Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey

Savory Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey: Your Juiciest Thanksgiving Yet

This Savory Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey is the highlight of festive dinners, promising moist, juicy bites infused with vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey
  • 12–14 lb Whole Turkey Make sure it’s thawed
  • 1 cup Fresh Sage Leaves Packed
For the Citrus
  • 2 Oranges Cut into wedges
  • 2 Lemons Cut into wedges
For the Basting
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Melted
  • 2 tbsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste
For the Brine
  • 1 gallon Water
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Salt

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Oven
  • Roasting rack
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Brining and Roasting
  1. In a large pot, combine water, sugar, and salt. Heat until dissolved, then cool completely. Submerge the turkey in the brine for at least 8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
  2. Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure even cooking of your turkey.
  3. After brining, remove the turkey and pat it dry. Stuff the cavity with citrus wedges and fresh sage leaves for a delicious aromatic infusion.
  4. Brush melted butter generously all over the turkey, making sure to get it under the skin. Season the turkey well with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
  5. Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack. Roast it for about 13–15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  6. Once removed from the oven, let the turkey rest for a minimum of 20 minutes before carving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 50gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Garnish with additional citrus wedges and fresh herbs for an eye-catching presentation. For best results, do not skip the brining step and ensure the oven is fully preheated before cooking.

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