Roasted Turkey with Apples

Name: Roasted Turkey with Apples
Yield: 8 - 10
Ingredients: 1 turkey (11–15 lbs), cleaned; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 tbsp dried thyme; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 small bunch fresh thyme; 5 apples, cored and quartered; 1 lb baby potatoes; 5 red onions, quartered; 1 lb sugar snap peas; 1.3 lbs peeled and cubed butternut squash; 2/3 cup dry white wine

Main Meat

The Ultimate Guide to Roast Turkey with Apples

Discover how to make the perfect roasted turkey dish. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Sunday lunch, and other special occasions, this satisfying meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

8 - 10

3.5 - 5 hours

Ingredients

1 turkey (11–15 lbs), cleaned
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tbsp dried thyme
1 lemon, quartered
1 small bunch fresh thyme
5 apples, cored and quartered
1 lb baby potatoes
5 red onions, quartered
1 lb sugar snap peas
1.3 lbs peeled and cubed butternut squash
2/3 cup dry white wine

preparation

1.

Preheat your oven to 340°F.
2.

Season the turkey generously with salt and black pepper, both inside and out. Rub the entire turkey with La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle the dried thyme evenly over the surface. Stuff the cavity with the quartered lemon and the bunch of fresh thyme.
3.

Place the turkey in a large roasting pan, accompanied by the apples, baby potatoes, red onions, sugar snap peas, and butternut squash. Pour the white wine into the pan and season the vegetables with salt and pepper.
4.

Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 3.5–5 hours, depending on weight. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the cooking process; the thickest part of the breast should reach 160–165°F.
5.

Every hour, open the oven and baste the turkey with the juices from the bottom of the pan to keep the skin moist and flavorful.
6.

Remove the vegetables and apples as they become tender to prevent overcooking. Set them aside and keep warm.
7.

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, return the vegetables and apples to the roasting pan to heat through. Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for 20–30 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables and apples

A Perfect Thanksgiving Centerpiece

Roasting a turkey is a time-honored tradition, especially for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings. This recipe elevates the classic dish by incorporating apples, seasonal vegetables, and La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which enhances both the flavor and moisture of the turkey.

Why Use Olive Oil for Roasting?

Benefits of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Using olive oil instead of butter offers several advantages:

Enhanced Flavor: The fruity, peppery notes of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil pair beautifully with the thyme and roasted vegetables.
Moisture Retention: Olive oil helps keep the turkey moist while developing a crisp, golden-brown skin.
Healthier Option: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil is a heart-healthy alternative to traditional fats.

Tips for Roasting the Perfect Turkey

How to Calculate Cooking Time

The cooking time for turkey depends on its weight. A general rule of thumb is to roast the turkey for 13–15 minutes per pound at 340°F. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your turkey is cooked perfectly.

Basting for Juiciness

Basting the turkey every hour with the juices from the pan ensures a moist, flavorful finish.

Resting the Turkey

Allowing the turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting helps the turkey absorb the juices, making it tender and easier to carve.

Amp up the Flavor with Apples and Vegetables

Apples: A Sweet and Savory Element

Apples bring a natural sweetness and mild acidity to the dish, complementing the savory turkey. As they roast, the apples soften and caramelize, adding depth to the flavor profile.

Vegetables: A Seasonal Medley

Baby Potatoes: Provide a soft, comforting side that pairs perfectly with the turkey juices.
Red Onions: Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds a subtle tang.
Sugar Snap Peas: Their vibrant green color and crunch offer a fresh contrast to the other roasted elements.
Butternut Squash: Adds a touch of earthy sweetness, balancing the flavors on the plate.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

Complement this roasted turkey with these classic sides:

Cranberry Sauce: Adds a tart, fruity contrast to the rich turkey.
Stuffing or Dressing: Choose a bread-based or wild rice stuffing for added texture.
Gravy: Use the pan drippings to make a flavorful turkey gravy.

Glaze for Extra Flavor

Create a glaze by mixing honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Brush it over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of roasting for a glossy, flavorful finish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing

Refrigerate leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Store the roasted vegetables separately to maintain their texture.

Reheating

For the turkey, cover slices with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
Reheat vegetables on a baking sheet in the oven to restore their crisp edges.

Using Olive Oil with Popular Holiday Season Dishes

Olive oil brings the best out of roasted meat and vegetable dishes. During the holiday season, the number of roast dishes we prepare usually increases significantly. One way to make those dishes healthier is to use olive oil. This easy Baked Ham recipe calls for La Española Classic Olive Oil. Not only does it facilitate an even and tender finish to the meat, its mild and neutral flavor accentuates the natural savoriness of the ham.

Similarly, you can elevate Sautéed Green Beans by frying them with La Española Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The natural flavors of the green beans are delightfully accentuated by the rich, peppery tasting notes of the olive oil. The result? A tasty side dish to go with any holiday season feast.