Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs Recipe

The holidays are approaching, and it’s time to start planning a feast that brings warmth and comfort to your loved ones. But let’s be honest—cooking a whole turkey can be daunting. That’s where this Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs recipe steps in, offering the best of both worlds: juicy, flavorful turkey, but with less effort and stress. Whether you’re hosting a small family gathering or just want a memorable Sunday dinner, this recipe is easy, bursting with warm flavors, and sure to impress.

We’ll take a tender turkey breast and rub it generously with garlic, fresh herbs, and spices, before roasting it alongside sweet grapes and aromatic shallots. Trust me, every bite of this roasted goodness will have you and your guests coming back for more.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

Description: A flavorful and juicy Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs seasoned with garlic, herbs, and warm spices, roasted with grapes and shallots for a touch of sweetness. Ideal for cozy get-togethers and intimate celebrations.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Ingredients List:

• 1 turkey breast (4-5 pounds)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup seedless red or green grapes
• 3 shallots, peeled and halved

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, parsley, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper with olive oil to create a paste.
3. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs in a roasting pan and arrange the grapes and shallots around it.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted grapes and shallots.

Notes:

• For even better flavor, let the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before roasting.
• Roasted grapes add a unique sweetness to the dish, but you can also substitute them with figs for a different touch.

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 slice with grapes and shallots
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Unlike cooking a whole turkey, this Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs recipe is much easier and takes less time to prepare.
2. Perfect for Small Gatherings: Ideal for smaller holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
3. Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of garlic, herbs, and roasted grapes creates a savory-sweet combination that’s sure to impress.
4. Versatile Leftovers: Any leftovers make for the most delicious turkey sandwiches!

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Turkey Breast: The star of this recipe is a bone-in Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs. If you prefer, you could use a boneless breast, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Garlic and Herbs: Fresh garlic and parsley infuse the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs with robust flavors. Feel free to substitute parsley with thyme or rosemary if you’re looking for a different herbal note.
• Spices (Allspice and Nutmeg): These warm spices elevate the flavor, but you can swap them with cinnamon or paprika for a twist.
• Grapes: Roasted grapes add an unexpected burst of sweetness. Alternatively, use fresh figs or even dried apricots for a similar effect.

How to Make Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Herb Paste: Start by mixing the minced garlic, chopped parsley, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Add the olive oil and stir until it forms a thick, aromatic paste.
2. Season the Turkey: Rub this mixture all over the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs, making sure to cover it evenly. This will guarantee that each bite is bursting with flavor.
3. Arrange for Roasting: Place the seasoned Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs in a roasting pan. Scatter the grapes and halved shallots around the turkey.
4. Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for around 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F. The grapes will soften and release their juices, adding to the flavor of the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices to spread evenly, resulting in a turkey that’s even juicier and more flavorful.

Expert Tips for Success

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, let the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs marinate for a couple of hours in the fridge before cooking. This will deepen the flavors.
• Temperature Accuracy: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs to avoid overcooking it. The goal is to reach 165°F.
• Rest the Meat: Always let the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Variations and Customizations

• Citrus Addition: Add lemon or orange slices under the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs for a citrus twist.
• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of chili powder to the herb paste for a little heat.
• Butter Baste: Swap olive oil with melted butter for an even richer flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftover Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze slices of Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs for up to 2 months. Be sure to package them securely to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water to keep them moist and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve this Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs with classic mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple mixed greens salad.
• Holiday Twist: Pair it with stuffing and cranberry sauce for a more festive holiday meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a boneless turkey breast?
  Yes, you can use a boneless Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster.
• What can I substitute for grapes?
  You can use figs or dried apricots instead of grapes for a different type of sweetness.
• What can I do to ensure the turkey breast stays moist?
  Make sure to rub the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs generously with the herb paste, use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, and let it rest before slicing.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the herb paste and rub it on the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before roasting.
• How can I tell if the turkey breast is fully cooked?
  The best way to determine if the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature must hit 165°F (74°C).
• Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?
  Absolutely! Adding root vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the roasting pan will enhance the dish and make it a complete meal.
• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
  Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about one-third the amount of fresh herbs. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
• What should I do if the skin is getting too dark before the turkey is cooked through?
  If the skin of the Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs is getting too dark, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue roasting until the desired internal temperature is reached.

Related Recipes

• Garlic Butter Roast Chicken: If you love garlicky flavors, you’ll adore this roast chicken recipe that’s juicy and bursting with garlic-butter goodness.
• Herb-Crusted Pork Loin: Similar to our Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs, this pork loin is rubbed with fresh herbs and roasted to perfection.
• Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken and Vegetables: An easy and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Conclusion

This Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs is a perfect solution for when you want a show-stopping meal without the hassle of a whole bird. With aromatic herbs, warm spices, and the sweet twist of roasted grapes, it’s sure to become a favorite for any special occasion. So why not give it a try? You’ll love the compliments you get from your family and friends, and they’ll love the amazing flavor. Happy cooking!