Step 1

Combine salt, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper and dried herbs together then cover the turkey all over with it and scatter the remaining seasoning in the cavity of the turkey.

Step 2

Place the turkey in a large dish (I just used a large roasting dish). Place in the fridge and allow to dry-brine for up to 24 hours.

Step 3

On the day of roasting, take the turkey out of the fridge at least an hour before roasting and allow to come up to room temperature.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 200°C/390°F.

Step 5

Gently loosen the breast skin then add softened butter and sage leaves under the skin.

Step 6

If the butter is soft enough, you can just spread it over the breast by pressing it gently.

Step 7

Place lemon slices, fresh sage, thyme and rosemary in the cavity then tie the legs together. Drizzle the turkey with olive oil and place in a large roasting dish.

Step 8

Pour stock around the turkey and add halved garlic bulbs and more sage, thyme and rosemary. Place the turkey in a preheated oven and roast until the turkey is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 9

If the meat reaches 74ºC/165ºF in the breast, thigh and drumstick, your turkey should be perfectly cooked. Allow to rest then carve.

Step 10

Place the turkey on a large platter and add fresh herbs, the roasted garlic and lemon halves to decorate. Orange halves and pomegranate are also beautiful around a turkey. Serve with all the sides and gravy.