Exquisite Roasted Cornish Game Hens

A delectable and elegant dish featuring tender Cornish game hens marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices before being roasted to perfection.

Ingredients

1	lemon, juice only
4	fluid ounces olive oil
2	garlic cloves, pressed
1 ½	teaspoons dried thyme
3	teaspoons dried rosemary
2	bay leaves
1 - 2	teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
	salt
	pepper, to taste
2	Cornish hens
	unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

• 1. Begin by carefully splitting the Cornish game hens and delicately removing the ribs and backbone.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, pressed garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes to create a luscious marinade. Add the Cornish game hens to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated, and allow them to marinate for 2 to 6 hours to absorb all the delicious flavors.
  3. Prior to cooking, remember to bring the marinated Cornish game hens to room temperature to ensure even cooking and optimal tenderness.
  4. Preheat the oven to a high temperature of 500°F to create the ideal cooking environment for the Cornish game hens.
  5. Once ready, carefully remove the Cornish game hens from the marinade and gently pat them dry to enhance browning.
  6. Place the marinated Cornish game hens in a single layer in a suitable oven dish. Brush the hens generously with melted unsalted butter, season with salt and pepper to your preference, and then roast them in the preheated oven for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. For a perfect finish, remember to baste the hens with butter intermittently during the cooking process.

Jul 19, 2024