This Turkey Roulade is a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for smaller gatherings, especially for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal. The turkey breast is tender and moist, while the savory vegetable filling, made of onions, celery, and carrots sautéed with herbs, provides rich flavor. It’s an elegant dish to serve hot or cold, and it’s much easier to make than it appears!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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2 to 3 lbs boneless turkey breast (split/half)
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2 + 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 cup celery, diced small (about 2 ribs)
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1 cup carrots, diced small (about 2 medium carrots)
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¼ tsp bay leaf powder
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½ tsp dried thyme
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⅓ tsp dried rosemary (or sage)
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1 tsp salt (or to taste), divided
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¼ to ½ tsp white pepper (to taste), divided
Directions
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Melt 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil) in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, carrots, ⅓ tsp salt, a pinch of white pepper, bay leaf powder, thyme, and rosemary. Sauté until vegetables are soft and onions are translucent. Set aside to cool.
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Butterfly the turkey breast by placing it smooth side down. Slice horizontally through the thickest part, stopping before cutting all the way through, and open the breast like a book.
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Cover the breast with plastic wrap and gently pound it to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet.
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Season the turkey breast with ⅔ tsp salt and pepper. Spread the sautéed vegetable filling over the turkey, leaving a 1-inch border.
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Roll the turkey tightly from the short end, securing it with kitchen twine at intervals and a final vertical loop.
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Rub the turkey with the remaining 2 tbsp butter, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, and place in a parchment-lined baking pan. Tent loosely with foil.
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Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes with the foil on. Then remove the foil and roast for another 10-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 157-160°F (69-71°C).
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Rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Don’t forget to remove the twine!
Nutrients (per serving)
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Calories: 206 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 4g
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Protein: 33g
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Fat: 6g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
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Net Carbohydrates: 3g
A Savory Vegetable Filling: Flavor in Every Bite
What sets turkey roulade apart from other turkey dishes is the savory vegetable filling that enhances the natural flavors of the turkey breast. The mixture of sautéed onions, celery, and carrots provides a perfect balance of sweetness, earthiness, and crunch. The vegetables are gently sautéed with aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf powder, which impart a wonderful fragrance and depth of flavor to the filling. This combination of vegetables and herbs creates a hearty and flavorful stuffing that complements the tender turkey, making it a satisfying main dish.
The choice of vegetables not only contributes to the flavor profile but also adds to the nutritional value of the meal. Celery and carrots are low in calories but packed with vitamins and fiber, while the onions provide antioxidants that support overall health. The subtle addition of herbs like thyme and rosemary gives the roulade a Mediterranean flair, elevating it beyond traditional turkey dishes.
Turkey Breast: Tender and Moist
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the turkey breast. By butterflying the turkey breast and pounding it to an even thickness, the meat becomes tender and cooks evenly throughout. Butterflying is a simple technique that involves slicing the turkey breast horizontally through its thickest part without cutting all the way through. This process helps the turkey cook more quickly and evenly, ensuring that it stays moist and flavorful.
Once the turkey is prepared, the vegetable filling is spread evenly across the surface, and the turkey is rolled tightly from the short end. This method of rolling the turkey ensures that the vegetable mixture stays in place while also creating a beautiful spiral effect when sliced. The addition of butter rubbed on the turkey before roasting adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
One of the biggest advantages of turkey roulade is that it fits perfectly into low-carb and keto diets. With only 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal without sacrificing their dietary goals. The absence of bread or other carb-heavy fillers means that this dish remains focused on lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a healthy and balanced option for anyone looking to cut down on carbs.
In addition to being low in carbs, turkey roulade is also high in protein, with 33 grams per serving. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function, making this dish a great choice for those who are looking to boost their protein intake. The relatively low fat content (6 grams per serving) makes it a leaner option compared to many traditional roasts or meat dishes, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Roasting to Perfection
Roasting the turkey roulade is simple yet effective, allowing the flavors to meld together while keeping the meat tender and juicy. After rolling the turkey and seasoning it with butter, salt, and pepper, it is placed in a parchment-lined baking pan, tented loosely with foil. Roasting at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes with the foil on helps retain moisture and heat the turkey through without drying it out. Removing the foil towards the end of the cooking time allows the turkey to brown and develop a crispy exterior, which enhances the texture and flavor of the dish.
The key to perfect turkey roulade is monitoring the internal temperature. The roulade is done when the internal temperature reaches 157-160°F (69-71°C). This ensures that the turkey is fully cooked while still remaining moist and tender. Letting the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing helps redistribute the juices, ensuring that each slice is as flavorful and juicy as the last.
A Versatile Dish for Any Meal
Turkey roulade is an incredibly versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, a special family gathering, or a weeknight dinner, this dish will impress your guests with both its presentation and flavor. It can be served hot out of the oven, making it a comforting and satisfying choice for a sit-down dinner. Alternatively, turkey roulade can also be served cold, making it a great option for meal prep or a light lunch. Cold slices of turkey roulade pair wonderfully with a crisp salad or fresh vegetables, making for a quick and healthy meal.
Because turkey roulade is so adaptable, it can also be paired with a wide range of sides. For a keto-friendly meal, try pairing the roulade with roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a simple green salad. For those who are looking for something more traditional, it can be served with low-carb mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts. The options are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences and dietary needs.
Why Turkey Roulade Stands Out
Turkey roulade stands out as a unique and impressive alternative to traditional turkey dishes. Its elegant presentation, coupled with the rich and savory vegetable filling, makes it a showstopper for any occasion. Despite its gourmet appearance, turkey roulade is surprisingly easy to prepare. The process of butterflying the turkey and rolling it with the filling is simple and can be done by anyone, regardless of their cooking experience.
Additionally, the dish’s low-carb and keto-friendly nature makes it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free lifestyle, turkey roulade is a meal that you can feel good about serving. The fact that it’s both flavorful and healthy makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying and wholesome meal without compromising on taste.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turkey Roulade is a delicious, elegant, and versatile dish that is perfect for smaller gatherings, holiday meals, or everyday dining. With its tender turkey breast, flavorful vegetable filling, and simple preparation, this dish delivers on both taste and presentation. The low-carb and keto-friendly nature of the recipe ensures that it fits seamlessly into a variety of dietary lifestyles, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Whether served hot or cold, Turkey Roulade is sure to become a beloved addition to your repertoire, offering a satisfying and impressive meal that is both nutritious and delicious.