Rosemary Lemon Roasted Cornish Hen
Herb-Infused Cornish Game Hen with Decadent Truffle Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
2 Cornish game hens (about 1.5 lbs each), patted dry
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
2 lemons (1 zested and juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons truffle oil (plus more for drizzling)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a herb mixture.
Gently loosen the skin on the Cornish hens' breasts and thighs.
Rub the herb mixture under the skin and all over the outside of the hens.
Place lemon wedges inside the cavity of each hen.
Place the hens breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan and drizzle with remaining olive oil.
Roast for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
For the truffle mashed potatoes, place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
Add 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
While potatoes cook, warm the heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan until butter is melted.
Drain potatoes thoroughly and return to the pot. Mash until smooth.
Slowly add the warm cream and butter mixture, stirring continuously.
Fold in the truffle oil and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once hens are done, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve each hen with a generous portion of truffle mashed potatoes, garnished with chives and an extra drizzle of truffle oil if desired.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 85 minutes
Kcal: 685 kcal | Servings: 2 servings