Mediterranean Herb-Roasted Turkey

1. Prepare the Turkey:

Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Season the inside cavity generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Create the Marinade:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Marianello Extra Virgin Olive Oil, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, orange zest and juice, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage.
Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

3. Marinate the Turkey:

Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast and legs by carefully sliding your hands underneath, taking care not to tear the skin.
Rub half of the marinade under the skin, massaging it directly onto the meat for deep flavor infusion.
Apply the remaining marinade over the skin and inside the cavity, coating evenly.
Stuff the cavity with the quartered lemon, orange, and onion for added aroma and moisture.
Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body for an elegant presentation.
Cover the turkey loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Preheat the Oven:

Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 1 hour, ensuring even cooking.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

5. Roast the Turkey:

Place the turkey on a rack inside a large roasting pan.
Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist and enhance the pan drippings.
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices to achieve a golden, crispy skin and rich flavor.
If the skin begins to brown excessively, tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.

6. Rest and Carve:

Carefully remove the turkey from the oven and transfer it to a carving board.
Tent with foil and let it rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring succulent and tender meat.
Carve the turkey with a sharp knife, arranging the slices on a warm serving platter.

7. Serve:

Garnish with fresh herb sprigs and apples,and citrus slices for a sophisticated and festive touch.
Pair with your favorite holiday side dishes and enjoy the delightful symphony of Mediterranean flavors.

Cook Time

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Marinating Time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)
Cooking Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
Resting Time: 20-30 minutes

Total Active Time: Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours
Total Time (including marinating): At least 8 to 8.5 hours

Yield

Serves: 10-12 guests

Notes

Cooking Tip: Allocate about 13-15 minutes of roasting time per pound, but always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Gravy Suggestion: Elevate your meal by transforming the pan drippings into a luxurious gravy. Skim off excess fat, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or additional broth, and thicken to your preference.
Marinating Advice: For optimal flavor penetration, marinate the turkey overnight. This extra time allows the herbs and citrus to deeply infuse the meat.
Presentation Idea: Enhance the visual appeal by arranging roasted vegetables around the turkey or adding pomegranate seeds for a pop of color.

Wine Pairing: For a truly harmonious pairing with your Mediterranean Herb-Roasted Turkey, consider selecting a wine that echoes the citrus and herbaceous notes of the dish. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino would be an excellent white wine choice. If you prefer red wine, our lighter-bodied Consilience Pinot Noir, our Tre Anelli Graciano, or our Marianello Nebbiolo.