Broiled Cornish Hens
(Pollastrino alla Diavola)
Ingredients:
4 Cornish hens
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Lemon wedges
Parsley
Directions:
Cut Cornish hens lengthwise along entire backbone.
Open out Cornish hens until flat.
Place skin side down on a cutting board.
With a large cleaver or meat pounder, flatten Cornish hens without breaking bones.
Wash and dry thoroughly.
Combine olive oil, salt and plenty of pepper in a small bowl.
Brush Cornish hens on both sides with oil mixture.
Place in a large shallow dish.
Pour remaining oil over hens.
Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours, basting several times with oil mixture.
Preheat broiler or prepare barbecue.
Arrange Cornish hens skin side facing heat.
Cook 10 to 15 minutes. If skin turns too dark, adjust position of Cornish hens.
Turn and baste with marinade.
Cook 10 to 15 minutes longer or until tender.
Season with additional pepper.
Place on warm platter.
Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley.
Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.