| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 6g | 1g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 48g | 0.44g |
There are myriad reasons why I favor the Grilled Annatto-rubbed Turkey recipe; it’s much more than a simple fusion of taste and nutrition. This recipe, in all its rich glory, holds a cherished place in my kitchen, and I hope it will in yours as well. Inspired by the robust flavors and hearty character of my Italian-American upbringing, it incorporates a host of vibrant ingredients to produce a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delightful.
A Recipe That Echoes My Heritage
The Grilled Annatto-rubbed Turkey, I believe, encapsulates the essence of shared moments and lifetime memories that encircle family dining tables. Just like the traditional spaghetti and meatballs whipped up by my Italian grandparents, this recipe carries an inherent charm of homefulness. Each of the components harmoniously synchronizes to remind me of long family hikes where we’d find fresh, organic ingredients and put together a meal just like this one.
Refreshing Flavors Balanced with Healthful Nutrition
What particularly draws me to this recipe is its thoughtful blend of delightful flavors. The intertwining notes of fresh pineapple and lime juices with the exotic annatto seeds and colorful bell peppers take your palate on a tantalizing tropical voyage. Moreover, this recipe is also packed with essential nutrients. The turkey tenderloins, a lean source of protein, are paired with the natural sweetness of pineapple–a fruit well-known for its digestion-aiding enzyme, bromelain. The bell peppers and herbs also provide a wealth of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
This fruity alternative to traditional turkey dishes indeed resonates with health-conscious foodies. It’s somewhat akin to the Jamaican Jerk Chicken, another popular lean protein dish brimming with Caribbean flavors. Additionally, this dish pairs fantastically with side dishes like Roasted Sweet Potatoes or Classic Macaroni Salad.
So, if you’re in search of a recipe that is not only a gustatory pleasure but also a reminiscence of family traditions and wellness, the Grilled Annatto-rubbed Turkey is perfect for you. Prepare this beautiful meal, gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy it just as I have over the years.
What You’ll Need
- 6 turkey tenderloins
- 1/4 cup of annatto seeds
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 cup of fresh pineapple slices, for grilling
- 1 fresh lime, zested and juiced
- 6 wooden or metal skewers
- ½ cup of red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup of orange bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup of yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of fresh mint, chopped
Method
Step One
To begin, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if you’re using them. This is to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Step Two
Next, blend the annatto seeds, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a food processor until smooth. Pour this mixture into a large zip-top bag and add the turkey tenderloins. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Close the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 hours.
Step Three
While your turkey is marinating, prepare your pineapple salsa. Combine the pineapple slices, lime zest, lime juice, chopped red bell pepper, orange bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint in a mixing bowl. Toss until everything is well coated in the lime juice. Set aside.
Step Four
After the turkey has marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the turkey from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Skewer the marinated turkey slices and grill for 8-10 minutes per side or until they’re well marked and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Step Five
Tent your grilled turkey under aluminum foil and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices to redistribute into the meat, making for tender, juicy turkey.
Step Six
To serve, slice the turkey thinly across the grain. Arrange slices on a serving platter and top with the pineapple salsa. Enjoy your Grilled Annatto-rubbed Turkey!
