Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
If you’re searching for a showstopping yet effortless main dish, look no further than this Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe. With juicy, tender turkey bathed in a vibrant medley of fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic, every slice blooms with savory flavor. It’s the kind of dish that dazzles for special occasions yet fits seamlessly into your weeknight dinner rotation. The fresh zing of citrus with the earthy depth of rosemary and thyme transforms simple turkey into something truly memorable. Whether you’re gathering with family or just craving a beautiful meal, this Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe will be your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients deliver big, bright flavors! Each component in this Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe plays a starring role, infusing the dish with aroma, color, and that irresistible golden finish.
- Turkey tenderloins (2, about 1.5 pounds total): Mild, juicy cuts that cook up quickly—ideal as a blank canvas for herbs and aromatics.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Keeps the turkey moist while lending a rich, subtle fruitiness.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a piney woodsiness that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- Fresh thyme leaves (1 tablespoon): Offers delicate earthiness, bringing another layer of herbal depth.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brightens the whole dish with a burst of green color and grassy flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers savory punch and makes the marinade aromatic and bold.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for highlighting every other flavor in the recipe.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Lends gentle heat to balance all the fresh herby notes.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Infuses the turkey with a fragrant lift and beautiful citrus aroma.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Tenderizes the meat and brightens up the profile of every bite.
How to Make Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. This higher temperature gives you a lovely roasted crust while preserving the juiciness inside. Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly grease it; this keeps cleanup a breeze and ensures nothing sticks when those fragrant tenderloins come out perfectly roasted.
Step 2: Whip Up the Herb Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley, then stir in the garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Give the mixture a quick whisk so it becomes a cohesive marinade. The goal is to fully distribute those aromatics for an even coat, so every bite of the Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Season the Turkey Tenderloins
Pat the tenderloins completely dry with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of a golden brown roast! Rub the herb marinade generously and evenly over each side, pressing the mixture in so all those tiny bits of herbs and garlic cling to the meat.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Arrange the seasoned tenderloins on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them for even roasting. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let them cook for 25–30 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest part. If you’d like an even juicier finish, spoon a little of the pan juices over the turkey halfway through.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once the tenderloins hit that perfect temperature, remove them from the oven and let them rest on a cutting board for 5–10 minutes. This pause allows the juices to settle so every slice stays wonderfully succulent. Carve into thick medallions and get ready to serve your Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe with pride!
How to Serve Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley gives a welcome pop of green and freshness on top, while a flourish of lemon zest brightens up the final presentation. For a rustic, herbaceous vibe, you can even tuck a few whole sprigs of rosemary or thyme alongside the sliced turkey for aromatic flair.
Side Dishes
This Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe pairs beautifully with a bevy of classic and modern sides. Fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or even a crisp, tangy green salad all work seamlessly. For something lighter, try serving with quinoa pilaf or garlicky sautéed greens, which let the flavors of the turkey shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Slicing the tenderloin thin and arranging it on a platter with citrus slices and fresh herbs transforms it into an eye-catching centerpiece. For potlucks or lunch the next day, pile the turkey onto crusty bread with cranberry sauce and baby greens—think gourmet sandwiches or wraps featuring all the magic of your Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
All leftovers keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Be sure the turkey is cooled to room temperature before storing—this helps preserve the tender, juicy texture and keeps flavors at their peak.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooked, cooled turkey tenderloin tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or airtight container. It’ll stay flavorful for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy portioning and quick weeknight meals straight from the freezer.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe gently in a covered baking dish at 300°F until warmed through. Splash a little extra broth or pan juices over the slices to keep everything tender and moist—no dry turkey allowed!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with chicken or pork instead of turkey?
Absolutely! This marinade brings magic to chicken breasts or pork tenderloins. Keep an eye on cooking times—chicken may take slightly less, while pork should still be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F and rested before slicing.
Is it possible to marinate the turkey ahead of time for more flavor?
Definitely! Marinate the turkey up to 24 hours ahead for even deeper herb and garlic infusion. Cover tightly and store in the fridge until ready to roast; the results are extra aromatic and savory.
How do I keep the turkey tenderloin from drying out?
Make sure not to overcook—use a meat thermometer for perfect, juicy results. Basting the turkey once or twice with its own pan juices during roasting also locks in moisture and flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the turkey tenderloin?
Wait until the turkey has rested, then use a sharp knife to cut across the grain into medallions. This approach gives you beautifully tender, presentation-worthy slices every time.
Can I add more vegetables to the baking sheet?
Definitely! Toss halved baby potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts in a little olive oil and salt, then scatter them around the turkey before roasting. They’ll soak up those flavorful pan juices right alongside your Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s easy enough for a Tuesday night but impressive enough for a holiday, give this Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe a try. It’s bursting with fresh, herby goodness and always delivers on juiciness and flavor—just the kind of recipe you’ll love sharing again and again.
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Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Herb Roasted Turkey Tenderloin recipe is a flavorful and easy way to prepare a delicious main course. The turkey tenderloins are marinated in a fragrant herb mixture and roasted to juicy perfection.
Ingredients
Turkey Tenderloins:
- 2 turkey tenderloins (about 1.5 pounds total)
Herb Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare Herb Marinade: Combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
- Marinate Turkey: Pat dry the turkey tenderloins and rub the herb mixture over them.
- Bake: Place the tenderloins on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with sides or use in sandwiches and salads.
Notes
- You can marinate the turkey up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor.
- This recipe can also be made with chicken breasts or pork tenderloin.
- For extra juiciness, baste the tenderloins with pan juices during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 tenderloin
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
