Turkey breast, though undeniably nutritious, can be rather bland if not given the right treatment. In this recipe, both taste and presentation are elevated by the addition of a zesty gremolata (see below). It’s light and slightly tangy, and it adds an intriguing crunch that will please guests and family alike.
What is gremolata?
Gremolata is a classic Italian herb condiment, traditionally used atop veal shanks, but it can enhance a number of dishes. The following are just a few examples of how to use this zesty treat!
- Mix gremolata with some quality olive oil and toss it over mixed greens for a delicious and easy salad.
- For burgers with bite, add gremolata to ground poultry or meats.
- Sprinkle gremolata on top of cheesy pasta dishes for an appealing taste and crunchy texture.
- Mix gremolata with a flavourful oil and rub it on fresh fish and poultry before grilling.
Turkey Breast Cutlets with Sesame Gremolata
Ingredients
- 4 turkey breast cutlets (about 5 oz/150 g each)
- Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 Tbsp (30 mL) camelina or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 8 small plum tomatoes
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into chunks
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 slice sourdough or gluten-free bread, grated into coarse crumbs
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) finely minced flat leaf parsley
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Nutrition
Per serving:
- calories284
- protein39g
- fat14g
- saturated fat3g
- trans fat0g
- carbohydrates18g
- sugars6g
- fibre5g
- sodium159mg
Directions
01
Preheat oven to 350 F (180 C).
02
Place turkey breast cutlets between 2 pieces of wax paper and pound them to about 1/4 in (0.6 cm) thickness with flat side of meat tenderizer or rolling pin. Place cutlets in small square baking dish and pour lemon juice and 1 Tbsp (15 mL) oil over them. Set aside.
03
Meanwhile, place tomatoes and zucchini chunks in roasting pan and drizzle with remaining oil. Season with salt and pepper, and place in oven.
04
Next, place bread crumbs and sesame seeds on small, sturdy baking sheet. Place in oven and toast for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until bread is crispy and seeds are golden. Keep a close watch to avoid burning. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Pour seeds and crumbs into small bowl and toss with lemon zest, parsley, garlic, and salt and pepper.
05
Increase oven temperature to 400 F (200 C) and continue to roast vegetables for 10 to 15 minutes more.
06
While vegetables are roasting, heat nonstick grill pan or skillet until hot. Add turkey cutlets and sear nicelyu2014about 3 minutes per side. Place turkey on serving plates and top each cutlet with generous serving of sesame gremolata. Remove roasted tomatoes and zucchini from oven and spoon onto plates. Serve immediately.
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