The turkey tenderloin, often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart the turkey breast, offers a succulent and versatile option for a variety of dishes. One of the finest ways to enjoy this cut is through the recipe for “Crispy Baked Turkey Tenderloin with Herb Sauce.” This dish combines the delicate flavors of turkey with a crispy exterior, complemented by a fresh, aromatic herb sauce that enhances the natural flavors. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe promises a culinary delight that’s as enjoyable to cook as it is to eat.
Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 turkey tenderloins (approximately 1 lb each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- For the Herb Sauce:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Turkey
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the turkey tenderloins: Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels. This is crucial for ensuring a crispy exterior.
- Season the tenderloins: In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning mix all over the tenderloins.
- Sear the tenderloins: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tenderloins and sear each side for about 2 minutes until golden brown. This will lock in the flavors and start the crisping process.
Baking
- Transfer to the oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin reads 165°F (74°C).
Making the Herb Sauce
- Combine sauce ingredients: While the turkey is baking, combine all the herb sauce ingredients in a bowl. Whisk until well blended and emulsified.
Serving
- Rest and serve: Let the tenderloins rest for 5 minutes after baking. Slice and drizzle with the prepared herb sauce before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Marinade option: For even more flavor, marinate the turkey tenderloins in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and the herb sauce ingredients for at least 1 hour before cooking.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used at a ratio of 1:3 (one part dried to three parts fresh).
- Accompaniments: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
The “Crispy Baked Turkey Tenderloin with Herb Sauce” is not only a testament to the versatility of turkey but also a celebration of flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated. Its crispy exterior, tender interior, and fragrant herb sauce make it a must-try recipe. We encourage you to cook this delightful dish, share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to share this recipe on social media.