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As the holiday season approaches, many families begin to plan their festive gatherings, and for most, the centerpiece of these celebrations is none other than a beautifully roasted turkey. Turkey has long been a symbol of abundance and gratitude, gracing dinner tables during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and various family celebrations around the world. Its rich flavor and succulent texture make it the perfect main course, and when prepared correctly, it can elevate any festive gathering to a memorable event.

Garlic and Herb Turkey Recipe – The Perfect Festive Delight

Elevate your holiday gathering with a Garlic and Herb Turkey that's sure to impress! Infused with fresh herbs and savory garlic, this recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful centerpiece for your festive feast. Perfectly roasted with a golden-brown skin, it's not just delicious—it's a true showstopper! Follow this easy guide for success and make your family celebrations unforgettable. #Thanksgiving #HolidayCooking #GarlicHerbTurkey #FestiveRecipe #CookingTips #TurkeyDinner
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Ingredients
  

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 tablespoon garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon lemon zest

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 onion, quartered

4 carrots, chopped

4 celery stalks, chopped

1 lemon, quartered

1 head of garlic, halved horizontally

Kitchen twine for trussing

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

    Prepare the Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.

      Prep the Turkey: Remove the turkey from its packaging and remove the giblets and neck from the cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

        Butter the Turkey: Carefully slide your hand under the skin of the turkey breast to create a pocket. Use half of the herb butter to spread under the skin. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.

          Fill the Cavity: Stuff the cavity with the quartered lemon, onion, garlic, and some of the chopped celery and carrots. This will add flavor from the inside.

            Truss the Turkey: Using kitchen twine, tie the legs together and tuck the wing tips under the turkey to prevent them from burning.

              Prepare the Roasting Pan: In a large roasting pan, add the remaining chopped carrots, celery, and onion, and pour in the chicken broth.

                Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack inside the roasting pan. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting it with the pan juices every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked at the thickest part of the thigh, approximately 3 hours.

                  Golden Brown Finish: If the turkey begins to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.

                    Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

                      Serve: Carve the turkey and serve it alongside your favorite festive sides, drizzling some of the flavorful pan juices over the meat.

                        Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours | Servings: 10-12