Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious meal that's ready in a flash? Then look no further! This grilled turkey tenderloin recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that tastes amazing.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) turkey tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple mixture creates a flavorful marinade that will tenderize and season the turkey perfectly.
Step 2: Marinate the Tenderloin
Place the turkey tenderloin in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the turkey, ensuring it's coated evenly. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. Longer marinating times are even better!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking. A clean grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks.
Step 4: Grill the Turkey
Place the marinated turkey tenderloin on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in dry meat.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the turkey tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Slice the turkey against the grain and serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, if desired. This delicious dish is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home.
Cooking Tips for the Best Grilled Turkey Tenderloin:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the turkey tenderloin enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, grill in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature, preventing undercooking or overcooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Turkey: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused Marinade: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for an aromatic twist.
- Honey-Mustard Glaze: For a sweeter and tangier flavor, brush a honey-mustard glaze over the turkey during the last few minutes of grilling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on size and additions)
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5g
This grilled turkey tenderloin recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. Its quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, while its delicious flavor profile ensures it will become a family favorite. Enjoy!