This turkey tenderloin recipe turns two small tenderloins into a straightforward roast with Original Dust, olive oil and lemon. Use plain, unseasoned tenderloins and check each one separately. A short rest keeps the slices easier to serve.
2 plain turkey breast tenderloins, about 1 1/2 lb (680 g) total, thawed
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Original Desert Dust
1 lemon, cut into wedges
2 small thyme sprigs, optional
Directions
Prepare the oven and turkey. Heat the oven to 375°F. Pat the tenderloins dry and remove any tough silvery strip of connective tissue. Choose a small roasting dish that holds them with a little space between them.
Coat with Dust. Rub the tenderloins with olive oil, then sprinkle Original Dust evenly over all sides. Set them in the dish without overlapping, with the thyme sprigs alongside if using.
Roast and check. Roast for 25–35 minutes, checking from 25 minutes. Insert a thermometer into the thickest center of each tenderloin and cook until both reach 165°F. Remove a smaller piece first if it finishes sooner.
Rest before slicing. Transfer to a clean board and rest for 5 minutes. If you want to serve the pan juices, make sure they are bubbling hot before spooning over the meat.
Slice and serve. Cut across the tenderloins into slices and squeeze lemon over them to taste. Serve four with vegetables, potatoes or rice. The cook estimate is 25–35 minutes plus the 5-minute rest; thicker pieces may need longer.
The Dust In This Recipe
The Original Desert Dust
$12.99
Make it with Original Desert Dust. Taste before adding extra salt.
✦The Date Is the DifferenceOrganic Coachella Valley dates bring sweetness, body and depth.
✦Smoky & EarthyA balanced all-purpose blend made for everyday cooking.
It is a smaller tender muscle from the breast. A whole breast or a large boneless breast roast has a different size and cooking time, so it is not a direct swap.
CAN I USE A PRE-SEASONED TENDERLOIN?
Plain, unseasoned turkey gives you control over the Dust and salt. If yours is already brined or seasoned, reduce the Dust and check the package instructions before cooking.
WHAT TEMPERATURE SHOULD TURKEY TENDERLOIN REACH?
Check each piece in its thickest center and cook to 165°F before removing it from the oven. Do not rely on the color of the outside.
DO I NEED TO COVER THE BAKING DISH?
Usually not for this short roast. If the seasoning darkens before the center is ready, loosely tent with foil and keep checking the temperature.
CAN I USE THE LEFTOVERS FOR SANDWICHES?
Yes. Refrigerate within 2 hours, or 1 hour above 90°F, and use within 3–4 days. Slice chilled turkey for sandwiches, or reheat portions to 165°F with a little broth to keep them moist.
