Turkey Florentine
A comforting dish featuring tender turkey breast served with flavorful Florentine rice, combining spinach and ham for a savory, family-friendly meal perfect for special occasions or weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roast the turkey according to package directions.
- Prepare the rice according to package directions.
- Stir the cooked rice with thawed and drained chopped spinach and diced fully cooked ham.
- Place the rice mixture in a buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole alongside the turkey during the last 45 minutes of roasting.
- Slice the turkey and serve with the Florentine rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the rice mixture. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with diced mushrooms or a plant-based protein. To save time, use pre-cooked turkey or leftover turkey from another meal, which can streamline the cooking process significantly. If you enjoy heartier meals, try pairing this with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the turkey and serve with the Florentine rice alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Baked Turkey Drumsticks for those craving more turkey flavors. Consider a light gravy drizzled over the turkey for added moisture and richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Ensure the turkey is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Florentine contains roughly 148 calories, with 9g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice or quinoa as an alternative to the long grain and wild rice mix. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary. Adjust the liquid according to the rice's requirements for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice and spinach mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake it alongside the turkey on the day you plan to serve it, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings.
What can I serve with Turkey Florentine?
In addition to a fresh salad, consider serving with roasted sweet potatoes or classic mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of cranberry sauce can also provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the turkey and rice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).