Spice-Roasted Cornish Hens With Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce

A north African influenced quick everyday dinner

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 3  Cornish hens, split lengthwise
• 1  tablespoon cumin seed
• 1  tablespoon  coriander seed
• 1 3⁄4 teaspoons salt
• 1  teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
•  olive oil
• 5  ounces cucumbers, peeled, cubed
• 1⁄2 cup plain yogurt
• 12  fresh fresh cilantro stems
• 4  garlic cloves, peeled
• 2  tablespoons sour cream

Directions

1. Position rack in top third of oven; preheat to 450°F
2. Arrange hens, skin side up, on large rimmed baking sheet.
3. Finely grind cumin and next 3 ingredients in spice mill.
4. Brush hens with oil.
5. Sprinkle on both sides with spice mixture.
6. Roast hens until cooked through, about 35 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, combine all remaining ingredients in processor.
8. Blend until almost smooth.
9. Season sauce with salt and pepper.