I watch those elaborate holiday commercials - the ones with the huge table laced with every vegetable imaginable. Twenty of your closest relatives squished together while dad carves into the 20 lb. turkey. You know the ones...And, I can't help but think to myself, doesn't anyone do a low-key holiday? There are several families out there of different sizes, celebrating in their own special ways, some not able or interested in the gigantic holiday spread.
Just because your family may not star in the next televised stuffing ad, doesn't mean you're holiday traditions aren't just as magical - and there's no reason the food can't be just as delicious! This time of year is great for the budget grocery shopper. Stores tend to stock up on holiday-type ingredients and then mark them down in a frenzy when they don't get bought up. Just last week I stumbled upon a real treasure - glorious turkey legs! Now, I know what you're thinking...this isn't the Renaissance Festival Anne! Yes, yes, those barbequed beauties are a staple at those period events, but they're also great in a variety of preparations to fill your holiday plate without emptying your already-low coin purse.
Turkey meat is a great addition to your gumbo, can star in your fricassee, and are wonderful just simply roasted. You may recall my post last month about how versatile the leftovers are too! So if you're on a budget - or would simply rather ration your extra bucks for those upcoming holiday sales - this simple recipe is right for you.
Roasted herb-seasoned turkey leg
Ingredients
Turkey legs
olive oil spray
salt
black pepper
dried herbs
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375º and place rack in the center of the oven
- Stagger turkey legs on a broiler pan (these slotted pans are great for catching drippings)
- Spray with olive oil spray and season with salt & pepper
- Crush herbs in your palm to release the oils and apply sparsely to legs
- Pat seasonings into the skin
- Bake for 1-1.5 hours (depending on size) until internal temperature (measured in the fleshy part) reaches 180º
Serve with simple steamed green beans, and a warm potato salad for a festive feel without all the fuss. Happy holidays, and may all your dishes be bright!