Take the turkey out of the package and submerge it in cold water, ensuring it is completely covered. If needed, replace the water every 30 minutes. This can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours - so plan ahead!
Once your turkey is thawed, mix the sesonings with olive oil, and rub it all over the turkey.
Step 2: Cooking the Turkey
Preheat your oven to 325 °F (160 °C).
Place your turkey on a wire rack over a roasting pan. This allows air circulation so the turkey cooks evenly and prevents sticking.
Roast, uncovered, for about 15 minutes per pound.
Near the end of the cooking process, insert a meat thermometer into the middle of one of the thickest parts of the breast or thigh. A fully cooked turkey should reach at least 165 °F (75 °C).
Step 3: Serving the Turkey
Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before serving, as this allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat for extra juiciness!
Transfer it to a platter or cutting board to carve.
Enjoy your turkey with some of the serving recommendations from the text!