Yes it’s that time of year again and, for those that celebrate Christmas, the meal is central to the day’s success. It may be common to loosen your belt and give yourself a free pass on the amount of extra helpings you enjoy during the festive period, but this can impact on weight management goals and interfere with diabetes self-management too. Researchers have confirmed that even small weight gains over the holiday period are not usually lost. 

But that’s not to say you can’t enjoy the traditional favourite of a roast turkey for Christmas lunch. With a few easy swaps you can reduce the amount of saturated fat and salt, without reducing the flavour. 

Tips

• Cook veggies and meat separately. First line a roasting pan with baking paper and add carrots and baby potatoes. Sprinkle with fresh thyme (not salt and pepper) to boost the flavor. Brush with a little olive oil if desired. 
• Choose turkey breast (instead of a whole turkey) and bake on a tray until cooked through. 
• Remove turkey from pan. 
• Add ginger, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, lemon zest and a teaspoon of honey to the pan the turkey was cooked in and simmer for a couple of minutes to create a sauce. 
• When the roasted veggies are ready, return turkey slices to pan and coat in the sauce. 
• Serve together for a delicious, healthy and flavoursome roast dinner!