Christmas turkey stuffed with chestnuts, sausage, and dried fruit is Italy's holiday roast. This high protein mediterranean centerpiece brings the whole family together for festive dining.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Let turkey come to room temperature for 1 hour. Pat dry and rub skin and cavity with 1 tsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and celery, sauté for 7 minutes until softened. Stir in sausage, breaking it up until no longer pink.
Add chestnuts, bread cubes, apricots, and figs. Mix well, cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly. Stir in eggs, rosemary, sage, and plenty of black pepper.
Loosely fill the turkey cavity with stuffing (do not overpack). Tie legs with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under. Rub remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper on skin.
Place turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 2.5–3.5 hours, basting every 45 minutes with pan juices. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. Turkey is done when a thermometer in thickest thigh reaches 165°F.
Rest the turkey, loosely covered with foil, for 30 minutes before carving. Scoop stuffing into a serving bowl. Slice and serve warm.