As a rule of thumb, the formula for roasting a whole (unstuffed) turkey is about 15 minutes per pound in a 325-degree oven. Bring the oven up to 350 degrees and you can cut the time by as much as 5 minutes per pound.

Do you see the bronze bird as the centerpiece of a feast? Or do you envision a platter of crisp-skinned thighs nestled among a few favorite dishes for an intimate gathering?

Still, if a turkey is on your menu, when the feast is about to begin and you’re finally sitting down, there is a sense of accomplishment. The golden bird looks regal, even before it goes to the table, sitting in a roasting pan splattered with turkey juices. Everyone is delighted.