Cancer Council NSW is offering easy, delicious and healthy alternatives to the traditional Christmas feast this festive season, with the launch of its new Festive Cookbook. Making a few healthy swaps to the traditional Christmas menu can still bring the Christmas cheer to all while making the festive period that little bit healthier. The cookbook recommends to:
• Include fruit and vegetables – aim for 5 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit everyday.
• Practice portion control – opt for small servings of red meat and avoid the fatty cuts.
• Limit alcohol – limit alcohol consumption to no more than 2 standard drinks per day. Why not consider a fruit frappe or soda water infused with fresh lemon and lime as a refreshing alternative to alcoholic drinks?
The cookbook is available for free download at www.cancercouncil.com.au/festivecookbook/
Smoked Almond and Prune Turkey Breast
Serves: 8
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 40 minutes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup chopped smoked almonds
• ¼ cup chopped prunes
• ¼ cup oregano leaves
• ¼ cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 turkey breast, butterflied, skin on
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C
2. Warm half the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook whilst stirring for 2 minutes or until translucent.
Transfer to a small bowl with almonds, prunes, oregano, breadcrumbs and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix to combine. Wipe pan clean.
3. Lay turkey breast opened out, skin side down between two sheets of baking paper. Use a meat mallet to flatten turkey to a rough rectangular shape of even thickness all over – about 2-3cm thick. Remove and discard the top sheet of baking paper. Spread almond mixture over one of the long edges and roll turkey tightly from that side to enclose filling in a log shape. Use kitchen string to truss and tie the turkey securely.
4. Warm the remaining oil in the same large frying pan as above over high heat. Add the turkey and cook for 5 minutes, turning to brown all sides evenly. Transfer turkey to a roasting dish and roast for 30 minutes or until cooked through. Rest turkey and slice to serve.
This recipe contains turkey breast which is a leaner meat that contains less fat than other meats and cuts. The inclusion of almonds and olive oil to the recipe adds healthy fats to the meal. Adding herbs provide a depth of flavour and reduce the need to add salt to the dish.