Turkey in lemon sauce

Delicious Turkey Thighs with Lemon and Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you are looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful recipe, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for you! The turkey thighs, roasted in the oven, become tender and juicy, while the lemon and garlic sauce adds a unique, refreshing taste. I invite you to embark on a culinary journey together!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 kg deboned turkey thighs (keeping the skin)
- 2 lemons (one for juice, the other for garnish)
- 250 ml meat broth (or warm water)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 cherry tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe History

Turkey thighs with lemon and garlic sauce have their roots in Mediterranean culinary traditions, where citrus flavors are often used to enhance the taste of meat. This simple yet savory recipe has been adapted over the years, becoming a family meal favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients makes this recipe easily accessible, but the final result is truly impressive.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the meat
Start by deboning the turkey thighs, leaving the skin on. This will help retain the juiciness of the meat during baking, adding extra flavor. Season the meat on all sides with salt, pepper, and oregano to give it a special taste.

2. Marinating the meat
Peel the garlic cloves and crush them, then mix them with the juice of one lemon. This will add a fresh note and help tenderize the meat. In a heat-resistant dish, add the garlic and lemon mixture, then place the turkey thighs. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours (ideally overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Preparing the oven
After the meat has marinated, preheat the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even baking.

4. Baking
Remove the dish from the refrigerator and add the meat broth and mustard. Gently mix to combine the ingredients. Place a few slices of cherry tomatoes on top and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. This detail will not only add color but also a fresh taste.

Now, place the dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. It is important to check the meat occasionally and baste it with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful. After one hour, turn the thighs over and let them bake for another 15 minutes until golden and browned.

5. Serving
Once the turkey thighs are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. You can serve them with creamy mashed potatoes and pickles, which will perfectly contrast the rich flavor of the meat. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh and vibrant appearance.

Useful Tips

- For an extra flavor boost: You can add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the marinade. These herbs pair excellently with turkey meat.
- Variations: Instead of meat broth, you can use white wine for a more sophisticated note. You can also replace the cherry tomatoes with slices of bell pepper for a colorful garnish.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Turkey thighs are an excellent source of protein, being rich in vitamins B6 and B12, which are essential for the functioning of the nervous system and metabolism. Additionally, lemons provide a generous amount of vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system. A serving of turkey thighs with lemon sauce contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Yes, the recipe works great with chicken as well. The baking time may be shorter, so keep this in mind.
- How can I store leftovers? Turkey thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

This turkey thighs recipe with lemon and garlic sauce is not only easy to make but also an excellent way to bring a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen. I encourage you to try it and enjoy delicious moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!