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When it comes to festive meals and family gatherings, turkey often takes center stage. It's a dish steeped in tradition, often associated with celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas. But what if you could elevate this classic centerpiece with a burst of vibrant flavor? Enter the Zesty Lime Glazed Turkey, a delightful twist that combines the savory richness of turkey with the bright, refreshing notes of lime. This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also introduces an exciting fusion of flavors that will leave your guests raving about the meal long after the last bite.

Lime Glazed Turkey

Elevate your holiday gatherings with a Zesty Lime Glazed Turkey that infuses classic turkey with a vibrant twist! This delightful recipe combines the savory richness of turkey with the tangy brightness of fresh lime, creating a dish your guests will rave about. Simple enough for any level of cook, the zesty glaze made from lime juice, honey, and spices adds a unique flavor profile. Impress your loved ones and make your next celebration unforgettable with this flavorful turkey recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed

1 cup fresh lime juice (approximately 8-10 limes)

1/2 cup honey

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

6 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Zest of 4 limes

Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Turkey: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove any giblets or neck from the turkey cavity. Thoroughly pat the turkey dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack set inside a large roasting pan.

    Make the Lime Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the fresh lime juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, ground cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Heat the mixture until it reaches a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to bubble for about 5 minutes, ensuring the honey has fully dissolved into the mixture.

      Incorporate Lime Zest: Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in the lime zest. Let the glaze cool slightly, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare to baste the turkey.

        Baste the Turkey: With a basting brush, generously apply the lime glaze all over the turkey, ensuring every surface is coated. Reserve approximately 1/4 cup of the glaze for later use during roasting and for serving.

          Roast the Turkey: Place the glazed turkey in the preheated oven. Roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C). Every 30 minutes, open the oven and baste the turkey with the reserved glaze to enhance flavor and moisture.

            Rest the Turkey: After the turkey has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Allow it to rest on a cutting board or platter for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting period is crucial for keeping the meat juicy and tender.

              Garnish and Serve: If you wish, garnish the beautifully roasted turkey with fresh cilantro leaves for a vibrant touch. Serve alongside the additional lime glaze for drizzling at the table.

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

                  - Presentation Tips: For an impressive presentation, carefully carve the turkey and arrange the slices on a large platter. Drizzle some extra lime glaze over the sliced turkey and sprinkle with lime zest and cilantro for a stunning visual appeal.