Flattened Cornish Game Hens with Garlic-Citrus Marinade
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme plus additional springs for garnish
3 finely chopped garlic cloves
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
2 teaspoons grated lime peel
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 Cornish game hens (1.25 – 1.5 lbs each), halved lengthwise
• Preheat oven to 375F.
• Combine olive oil, 4 teaspoons chopped thyme, garlic, lemon peel, lime peel, honey, salt & pepper in baking dish. Stir marinade to blend well.
• Place hen halves on work surface and cover with plastic wrap. Pound gently with mallet to flatten slightly.
• Place hen halves in marinade dish. Using fingers, rub both sides with marinade. Let marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature.
• Place hen halves in oven on non-stick oven tray Bake for 12 – 15 minutes per side, brushing with marinade every 3 – 4 minutes. Finish in broiler to char the skin. Keep an eye on it so as not to burn. .
• Arrange hen halves on plates. Garnish with lemon wedges, lime wedges, and fresh thyme sprigs.
• Serve with stir-fried summer squash, red peppers, and couscous salad.
