Rosemary-Thyme Butter Basted Turkey

Fresh herbs and butter impart a combination of mellow and lively flavors throughout this deliciously easy whole roasted turkey.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 (12-pound) turkey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Cooking Directions:

1. Remove giblet package and discard or use as desired. Rinse turkey inside and out and dry thoroughly.
2. Season turkey inside and out with salt and pepper, as desired.
3. In a bowl stir together softened butter, rosemary, thyme and parsley. Work the skin loose from a turkey and spread the herbed butter mixture underneath.
4. Roast according to the label directions, or at 400°F (205°C) for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours until tender and juices run clear. Baste with any remaining herbed butter during roasting.

Makes 12 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of the National Turkey Federation.