Lime- and spice-roasted young game hens nest in a vibrant homemade corn salsa costarring red bell pepper, jalapeno, lemon and lime.
INGREDIENTS (for 4 servings):
- 4 (1 pound) game hens
- 1/2 lime
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1 red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped jalapeno peppers
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
PREPARATION:
TO PREPARE GAME HENS: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Sprinkle lime juice on hens, then sprinkle on the chili powder, cumin, salt and ground black pepper. Splash olive oil over hens. Place in a 9x13 inch baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes; then reduce oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and bake until done and juices run clear, about 45 minutes more.
TO MAKE SALSA: Combine the corn, red onion, garlic, red bell pepper, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, lemon juice, cilantro, cumin, salt, ground black pepper and olive oil. Mix well and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Put on a platter and top with the cooked hens. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.