Turkey Rouladey is the main star of Thanksgiving dinner on my table. It’s a versatile and elegant alternative to traditional whole turkey dishes. The juicy, savory flavor of the dish never stops amazing me every year.
Contents
Turkey Roulade recipe
Turkey Roulade is a dish made from boneless turkey breast. The dish uses flattened turkey breast and rolls it with a flavorful filling. A roulade is a rolled dish that can be sweet or savory. For Turkey Roulade, the filling typically includes ingredients like vegetables, herbs, cheese, or sausage. Other options like bread crumbs, pistachios, or dried cranberries contribute texture and sweetness.
The taste of this turkey dish is mild and rich. The turkey is seasoned well and tastes juicy. The roulade showcases crispy skin and a moist interior. All of these factors make the Turkey Roulade a popular choice for festive occasions.
Here’s how to make the Turkey Roulade:
Turkey Roulade
Ingredients
- 1 boneless turkey breast 2–3 lbs
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Butcher’s twine for tying the roulade
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the turkey breast by slicing it horizontally without cutting all the way through. Open it like a book and pound it gently to an even thickness.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix cooked spinach, cranberries, cheese, and nuts.
- Spread the filling evenly over the turkey breast. Roll it tightly, starting from one end, and secure with butcher’s twine at 1-2 inch intervals.
- Rub the roulade with the remaining olive oil, then sprinkle thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly.
- Place on a roasting rack in a baking dish and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Slice into medallions and serve.
Pairing suggestions
Turkey roulade pairs well with a variety of drinks and dishes.
1. Drink Pairings
Cocktails
- Cranberry cocktails pair well with turkey.
- Apple cider cocktails enhance autumnal flavors often found in turkey dishes.
- Mulled wine complements turkey roulade’s savory notes and is ideal for holiday gatherings.
Wine Pairings
- White wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements turkey and herbs with refreshing contrast.
- Light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir or Gamay, enhances turkey’s richness without overpowering it.
- Sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Prosecco, balances flavors with its acidity and adds a festive touch.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- Sparkling water with citrus (lemon or lime) refreshes the palate and provides a light touch.
- Herbal iced tea, such as unsweetened chamomile or mint, contrasts soothingly with savory turkey roulade.
- Cranberry juice offers tartness.
2. Food Pairings
Sauces
- Cranberry sauce brightens turkey with tartness.
- Gravy adds flavor and moisture to the meal.
Vegetables
- Balsamic glazed carrots complement turkey with sweetness and tanginess.
- Green beans with pearl onions add crunch and rich flavor.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts balance roulade richness with bitterness.
- Lemon-pepper green beans enhance turkey with refreshing flavors.
- Braised celery pairs subtly with turkey.
Starches
- Mashed potatoes provide a creamy texture for turkey.
- Basmati rice absorbs sauce flavors while staying light and fluffy.
- Scalloped potatoes add creamy indulgence.
- Cheddar corn biscuits complement turkey as a tasty bread.
Salad
- Panzanella salad adds crunch and freshness.
- Mixed green salad balances heavier dishes with lightness.
Variations
Here are different variations of Turkey Roulades:
1. Chestnut and Sausage Stuffing
This roulade is filled with chestnuts and sausage. It is then roasted until golden brown. Serve it with pan-dripping gravy for a delicious Thanksgiving centerpiece.
2. Sous Vide Turkey Roulade
Sous vide cooking ensures a tender and juicy turkey. This method allows for precise temperature control.
3. Slow Roasted Sage and Rosemary Turkey Roulade
This roulade is seasoned with a herb paste from sage and rosemary. It captures traditional holiday tastes with a moist texture.
4. Version with 5-Minute Stuffing
This simplified version uses turkey cutlets filled with a quick stuffing mix. It’s an easy-to-make option that still delivers on presentation and taste.
5. Cajun-Spiced Turkey Roulade
This roulade incorporates Cajun spices into the filling. It pairs well with traditional sides like cornbread or collard greens.
6. Mediterranean Style
This variation features ground turkey mixed with feta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. It offers a fresh take on the traditional roulade.
