Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This Cornish game hen marinade recipe is your answer. These petite birds roast beautifully, and with a little help from a zesty marinade, they become a truly unforgettable meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to elevate your simple dinners!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe relies on fresh, vibrant ingredients to create a marinade bursting with flavor. It's all about simple ingredients combined beautifully.
-
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-
For the Cornish Game Hens:
- 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 pound each), cleaned and patted dry
Easy Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Quick Guide to Flavor
This recipe is designed to be straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
-
Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
-
Marinate the Hens: Place the Cornish game hens in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the hens, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
-
Preheat & Roast: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Roast the Hens: Remove the hens from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place them in a roasting pan. Roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the hens with the reserved marinade halfway through cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
-
Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cornish Game Hens
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the hens for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the hens are cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations for unique flavor profiles.
- Add vegetables: Roast alongside your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or asparagus, for a complete meal.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Basics
This basic recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Spicy Hen: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Citrus Burst: Substitute orange juice for some of the lemon juice for a different citrusy flavor.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with other herbs like sage, parsley, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This Cornish game hen recipe is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option that is perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. The flavorful marinade elevates this simple dish, creating a restaurant-quality meal that is surprisingly easy to make. Enjoy!