Oven-baked turkey breast

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction
If you're looking for a quick and tasty recipe, oven-roasted turkey breast is the perfect choice. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful, with a juicy texture and a blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Recipe History
Turkey breast is a versatile ingredient, appreciated in many cultures for its lean meat and high protein content. Over time, cooking methods have diversified, and baking has become preferred due to its ease and consistent results. In this recipe, we combine the flavor of turkey with the rich taste of cheese and salami, resulting in a dish that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients
- 1 turkey breast (approximately 800 g)
- 150 g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or any preferred type)
- 100 g smoked salami or bacon (optional)
- 30 g butter
- Spices of choice (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder)
- Aluminum foil
- Potatoes (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Details
- Turkey breast: Choose a fresh, quality breast that is juicy and has no visible fat.
- Cheese: Cheddar has a strong flavor, but you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different taste.
- Salami/bacon: These ingredients add a smoky note to the dish, but you can omit or replace them with vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Spices: Be creative! You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost.

Preparing the Turkey Breast
1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the turkey breast.

2. Prepare the turkey breast
Wash the turkey breast well and dry it with a paper towel. Then, cut it in half lengthwise to obtain two equal pieces. Make sure they are of similar thickness for even cooking.

3. Score the breast
Make incisions in each piece of turkey at intervals of about 2 cm, but do not cut all the way through. These slits will allow the cheese and salami to penetrate and provide an intense flavor.

4. Filling
In each created compartment, add a slice of cheese and, if desired, a slice of salami or bacon. This will lead to a final result with a delicious and flavorful interior.

5. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and other preferred spices on each piece of breast. Don't hesitate to use garlic powder or paprika for an intense aroma.

6. Preparing for the oven
Cut a piece of aluminum foil and grease it with a little butter on the inside to prevent sticking. Place the turkey breast pieces on the foil, seal it well, and ensure there are no leaks.

7. Baking
Place the foil in a baking tray and put it in the preheated oven. Let the turkey breast bake for one hour. During this time, you can prepare the garnish!

Garnish Suggestions
If you want to add some fried potatoes or baked potatoes, peel and slice them. Arrange them around the turkey breast in the tray, drizzling them with a little olive oil, salt, and spices. They will bake together with the turkey, absorbing its flavors.

8. Checking
After one hour, carefully open the foil (watch out for the steam that will escape) and check if the breast is cooked. The meat should be white and juicy. If needed, reseal the foil and leave it in the oven for another 10-15 minutes.

9. Serving
Once the turkey breast is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is important to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice will be tender.

For serving, slice the breast and arrange it on a plate alongside the potato garnish and a fresh salad. A green salad with cherry tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette will pair perfectly!

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute turkey breast with another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for chicken or pork, but the baking time may vary.

2. What can I use instead of cheese?
You can use goat cheese, feta, or even vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian option.

3. Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Oven-roasted turkey breast is perfect for a special lunch or dinner, as well as for a festive meal.

Nutritional Benefits
Turkey breast is an excellent source of lean protein, being low in saturated fats. It also contains B vitamins, which help maintain energy and the health of the nervous system. Combined with fresh vegetables, this dish becomes a balanced and nutritious option.

Variations
To add a touch of originality, you can also add olives, peppers, or sautéed mushrooms to the filling. Additionally, you can experiment with different spices, such as curry or cumin, to give the dish an international flair.

In conclusion, oven-roasted turkey breast is an easy and versatile recipe that adapts to your tastes. With a little effort, you will achieve a delicious dish, perfect for any meal. Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones! Bon appétit!