Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in delicious food. One of the centerpieces of the Thanksgiving meal is often the turkey. While traditional turkey recipes are always a hit, why not add a little twist this year and infuse your turkey with a bright Mediterranean flavor? In this spatchcock turkey recipe, lemon slices, garlic, and an abundance of fresh oregano, sage, and thyme work together to create a mouth - watering dish that will have your guests asking for seconds.

First, let's talk about spatchcocking the turkey. Spatchcocking is the process of removing the backbone from the turkey and flattening it out. This not only speeds up the cooking time but also ensures that the turkey cooks more evenly. Start by placing the turkey breast - side down on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp pair of kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it. Then, flip the turkey over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten the bird.

Now, it's time to prepare the flavorful stuffing. Take fresh lemon slices, garlic cloves, and a generous amount of oregano, sage, and thyme. These herbs are not only full of flavor but also have numerous health benefits. Oregano is known for its antibacterial properties, sage can aid in digestion, and thyme has antioxidant effects. Tuck the lemon slices, garlic, and herbs all around the turkey, making sure to place some under the skin as well. The skin acts as a natural barrier, locking in the flavors and keeping the meat moist.

Before roasting the turkey, it's important to season it properly. Rub the turkey with a mixture of salt, pepper, and a little bit of olive oil. The salt will enhance the flavor of the meat, while the olive oil will help the turkey develop a crispy, golden - brown skin. Place the spatchcocked turkey in a roasting pan and put it in a pre - heated oven.

As the turkey roasts, the aroma of the Mediterranean herbs will fill your kitchen. The lemon slices will release their citrusy juices, adding a refreshing tang to the meat. The garlic will mellow and become sweet, complementing the other flavors perfectly. Keep an eye on the turkey as it cooks. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Once the turkey is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 - 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and juicy. While the turkey is resting, you can prepare some delicious side dishes to go with it. A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would be a great choice, as it will cut through the richness of the turkey. You could also serve some roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, which will add some color and texture to your meal.

When it's time to carve the turkey, use a sharp carving knife and slice the meat against the grain. The spatchcocked turkey is easier to carve than a whole, traditional turkey, and the slices will be more uniform in size. Arrange the turkey slices on a platter and garnish them with some additional fresh herbs. Your Mediterranean - flavored spatchcock turkey is now ready to be served.

This spatchcock turkey recipe is a great way to add a new and exciting element to your Thanksgiving menu. The combination of the Mediterranean flavors with the classic Thanksgiving turkey is a match made in heaven. So, this holiday season, step out of your comfort zone and give this recipe a try. Your family and friends will surely appreciate the effort and enjoy the delicious meal.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is relatively easy to follow. With a little bit of preparation and some patience, you can create a Thanksgiving turkey that is both flavorful and visually appealing. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this amazing spatchcock turkey recipe.