Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing

Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1.5 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. The combination of tender turkey breast, flavorful stuffing, and savory seasonings makes this recipe a standout on any dinner table.

History

The tradition of stuffing poultry dates back centuries, with various cultures adding their own unique ingredients and flavors to create a delicious and satisfying dish. This particular recipe combines the classic flavors of spinach, apple, and gorgonzola cheese to create a modern twist on a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1 tbsp chopped garlic
1 apple, cored, medium (0.5 inch) dice
8 oz (227 g) (1 bunch) fresh spinach leaves, washed in cold water until free of dirt, cut into 2-inch pieces
0.33 cup breadcrumbs
0.5 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
salt and pepper to taste
1 boneless turkey breast (about 2.5 lb or 1.13 kg)
butcher's twine for tying up the rolled breast

How to prepare

To make the stuffing, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat, then add the garlic and quickly sauté (do not burn!).
Add the diced apple and sauté for 2 – 3 minutes.
Add the spinach and sauté until wilted.
Cook until all liquid has evaporated.
Remove from heat and add the breadcrumbs, gorgonzola cheese, 1 tsp of salt, and 0.5 tsp of pepper.
Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Butterfly the turkey breast open with a sharp boning knife.
Place it skin side down on a cutting board, cover it with plastic wrap, then lightly pound it out with a meat mallet to flatten it and make it an even thickness.
Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the breast with salt and pepper.
Spread the stuffing over the surface of the breast, leaving a 0.75-inch border.
Roll it up tightly, finishing with the skin side up (towards you).
Rub the entire top surface with butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Using butcher's twine, tie up the turkey breast to keep its shape while roasting.
Place the stuffed turkey breast on a buttered or oiled roasting pan (or on a baking rack in a pan).
Roast, uncovered, until the stuffed turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 1.5 hours.
Cover the turkey with foil if the top begins to get too brown.
Remove from the oven and let it sit, covered, for about 15 – 20 minutes to let it set before slicing.
Snip off the butcher's twine, and serve.

Variations

Substitute the gorgonzola cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add dried cranberries or chopped walnuts to the stuffing for added texture and sweetness.
Use different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, to customize the flavor of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pound out the turkey breast to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

- Use butcher's twine to tie up the rolled breast to help it keep its shape while roasting.

- If the top of the turkey breast begins to get too brown while roasting, cover it with foil to prevent burning.

- Let the turkey breast rest for 15-20 minutes after roasting to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Butterflying the turkey breast helps it cook more evenly and allows for easier stuffing.

- Tying up the rolled breast with butcher's twine helps it keep its shape and ensures that the stuffing stays inside during roasting.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken breast or pork loin as a substitute for turkey breast if desired.

- Swap out the apple for pear or dried apricots for a different flavor profile.

- Use breadcrumbs made from gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

The stuffing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- The turkey breast can be stuffed and rolled up a few hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator until ready to roast.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing into thick slices and arrange on a platter for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish.

- Pair with a side of cranberry sauce or chutney for a classic holiday combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place slices of the turkey breast on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 9g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 35g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

This Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy option for those watching their intake.

Summary

Roast Turkey Breast with Spinach Apple Gorgonzola Stuffing is a flavorful and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. With a delicious combination of tender turkey breast, savory stuffing, and seasonal flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a crisp autumn day, and I was attending a potluck dinner with some friends. As I scanned the buffet table, my eyes landed on a platter of beautifully roasted turkey breast stuffed with a tantalizing mixture of spinach, apples, and gorgonzola cheese. I knew I had to get my hands on that recipe.

I made my way over to the woman who had brought the dish and introduced myself. Her name was Mrs. Jenkins, and she was a retired chef who had spent years honing her culinary skills in kitchens all over the world. She graciously shared the recipe with me, explaining how she had learned to make it during a stint in Italy many years ago.

I listened intently as Mrs. Jenkins walked me through the steps, detailing how to butterfly the turkey breast, sauté the spinach and apples, and mix in the creamy gorgonzola cheese. It sounded like a labor of love, but I was determined to master it.

I rushed home that night, eager to try out the recipe for myself. I gathered all the ingredients I would need – a plump turkey breast, fresh spinach, crisp apples, and a chunk of pungent gorgonzola cheese. I set to work, following Mrs. Jenkins’ instructions to the letter.

As the turkey breast roasted in the oven, filling the house with a mouthwatering aroma, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. I had taken a leap of faith, trying out a new recipe that had captured my imagination, and I was eager to see the results.

When the timer dinged and I pulled the turkey breast out of the oven, it was a thing of beauty. The golden skin glistened, the stuffing oozed with melted cheese, and I knew I had created something truly special. I couldn’t wait to share it with my family.

As we sat down to dinner that night, I watched with bated breath as my loved ones took their first bites of the roast turkey breast with spinach apple gorgonzola stuffing. Their eyes lit up with delight, and I knew I had hit the jackpot.

From that day on, the recipe became a staple in my repertoire. I made it for special occasions, holidays, and even just for a cozy Sunday dinner. Each time I prepared it, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the generosity she had shown me in sharing her culinary knowledge.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs, spices, and even types of cheese. But at its core, the roast turkey breast with spinach apple gorgonzola stuffing remains a dish that brings me joy and satisfaction every time I make it.

As I look back on that fateful day at the potluck dinner, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this recipe. It has become a part of my culinary identity, a dish that I am proud to serve to my family and friends.

And so, I continue to cook, to experiment, and to learn, always on the lookout for new recipes and techniques to add to my repertoire. Because for me, cooking is not just about nourishing the body – it is about feeding the soul, connecting with others, and preserving the traditions and memories that make life rich and beautiful.