summer christmas menu
Dish up platefuls of Christmas tradition with this summer menu. Choose from a juicy, succulent brined turkey or a ham with apricot and brandy glaze – or make both! I reduce stress on the big day by glazing the ham the day before and serving it at room temperature.
Pair with crunchy Domino Potatoes, a Corn and Quinoa Salad that will keep your vegetarian, gluten-free guests happy, and the freshest of mango salads.
Finish with a showstopping Fantasy Pavlova and, a little later, a slice of fruit cake with coffee.
Served alfresco in the garden, this becomes a wonderfully relaxed Christmas. What could be a simpler twist on tradition?
prep plan
WELL AHEAD
My Miraculous Three-Ingredient Christmas Cake only gets better with time, and can be kept in an airtight container for a few weeks. The Fantasy Pavlova can be cooked and stored in an airtight container for up to six weeks, and the Berry Compote can be made in advance and chilled until needed. The Crostini can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container.
DAY BEFORE
Brine turkey up to 24 hours ahead of time. If space is at a premium in your fridge, brine the turkey in a chilly bin with some ice. Glaze ham and chill until needed. Make stuffing and chill separately until needed. Prepare Prawn and Chorizo Skewers and aioli dip and chill until needed. Prepare dressing for Summer Mango Salad. Make Slow-Roasted Tomatoes and chill until needed. Cook quinoa for salad and chill until needed. Prepare Domino Potatoes, cover and chill until needed.
ON THE DAY
Preheat oven, allowing 4 hours for the turkey to cook, plus up to 30 minutes for resting. Stuff turkey and place in oven to cook. Assemble Corn and Quinoa Salad and chill until needed. Prepare ingredients for Summer Mango Salad. Put Domino Potatoes in the oven with the turkey to cook for 40-50 minutes. Remove glazed ham from the fridge and bring to room temperature. Just before your guests arrive assemble Crostini with Feta and Slow-Roasted Tomatoes and cook Prawn and Chorizo Skewers.
FINAL PREPARATIONS
Once the turkey is cooked, remove it to a platter to rest while you make the gravy. Once everyone has enjoyed their starter, toss the Summer Mango Salad and carve the ham and turkey. Serve with side dishes. Whip cream for pavlova, if desired, and serve with Berry Compote or fresh berries. Dust Christmas cake with icing sugar and serve with coffee.
