Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze

The Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze brings a festive flair to any table with its perfect blend of savory turkey and sweet, tangy cranberry-orange glaze. This dish is not only a visual centerpiece but also a culinary delight, ideal for holiday gatherings or a special family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon each of fresh rosemary and thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with foil or place it in a roasting pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey

Season the turkey breast generously with salt and pepper. Rub the entire surface with olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to infuse it with flavors.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey in the oven and roast for about 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). It’s important to check occasionally to ensure even roasting.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry-Orange Glaze

During the roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Cook the Glaze

Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 6: Glaze the Turkey

When the turkey is fully roasted, brush it generously with the cranberry-orange glaze. Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes before slicing; this helps the juices redistribute.

Step 7: Serve

Slice the turkey breast and serve it drizzled with extra cranberry-orange glaze for enhanced flavor and presentation.

Variation:

Add a splash of Grand Marnier or another orange-flavored liqueur to the glaze for an extra layer of complexity and festivity.

Cooking Note:

To achieve the best flavor and moisture, baste the turkey occasionally with its juices during roasting.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this dish with sides of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Tips:

• Ensure your turkey breast is fully thawed before seasoning and roasting to achieve even cooking.
• For a crispier skin, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 15 minutes of roasting.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

75 minutes

Total Time:

90 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 120mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I prepare the glaze in advance? A: Absolutely, the glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated. Simply reheat gently before glazing the turkey.

Q: How can I ensure the turkey breast stays moist? A: Roasting at a steady temperature and allowing the meat to rest before slicing helps lock in moisture.

Conclusion

The Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze is an exquisite choice that combines traditional ingredients with a modern twist. This dish promises not only to satisfy taste buds but also to bring a touch of elegance to your festive occasions, making every meal memorable.