Bejewelled Turkey, Pistachio & Mint Couscous

So let's begin by saying that this recipe began as a new way of using leftover Christmas turkey, but really why should this be a once-a-year delight. If it's not Christmas time or if the turkey leftovers are a distant dream, then use one of those rotisserie chickens from the supermarket.  Done and done.

Now that we've cleared that up, let's get on to business ...

Think beyond turkey sarnies and turkey curry - there's more to leftovers than those old favourites and of course it needn't mean hours in the kitchen

We were at a Christmas dinner party a few nights ago - gorgeous friends, much laughter, an unbroken view of the Burj Khalifa, some furry reindeer antlers, a pair of 'Oh my God - why did I wear these' Christmas heels, fake snow on the front door (although questions were asked about whether it was a crime scene or a winter wonderland that we were entering), free-flowing drinks (and even more free-flowing water - there was work in the morning) and of course yummy, yummy food.

Dinner was a legendary 'Christmas dinner in a box' and you know what a fan I am of this inspired idea - everyone gets to enjoy a mouth-watering spread and nobody has slaved away all day to get there.

And there were crackers too - crackers from Marks and Spencer no less - which in the Middle East is even more of a treat than normal. They looked achingly stylish - not too bling (rare in Dubai), not too big, not too small, cute gifts (the ubiquitous plastic ring, a skateboard keyring (how have I ever lived without one?) and a set of tiny screwdrivers (surprisingly useful for tightening the tiny screws on your glasses)).

But the jokes ... oh the jokes ... Woeful in the extreme. No grooooaaannn was enough. This was pain-inducing humour.

Who never gets any kisses at Christmas?  A mistle-toad.

Who decorates Christmas cakes in the jungle?  Tarzipan.

I get the Christmas cracker joke formula of : Question. Answer. Groan - but : Question. Answer. Blank expression. Tumbleweed moment?  Tut, tut M&S - could do better.

Perhaps in an attempt to distract us from these corny gags, there was also an accompanying challenge in each cracker. The usual suspects were there - tongue twisters, impressions, songs to sing but also a challenge to guess everyone's favourite festive food. I was quick to confess that I would choose Brussels sprouts every time but reflecting on this answer now, I was wrong. It's leftovers. They are, for certain, my favourite festive food, and in particular, the leftovers involving the main event - the turkey. Turkey sarnies - TICK.  Turkey and chips - TICK. Turkey curry - TICK. And I'm especially fond of those leftover dishes that are more about combining than cooking.  And if there's not even the need to turn on the oven - Christmas leftovers nirvana.

May I introduce one of my favourite leftover turkey treats, this Bejewelled Turkey, Pistachio & Mint Couscous

It's as pretty and as festive as it gets and you can completely throw it together in no time at all.  It works like a dream in a picnic style spread but also holds its own perfectly as a meal in its own right. Don't be tempted to pass on the yoghurt and/or the pomegranate molasses - trust me - this is the part that will make your taste buds sing.

So, if you've had your fill of turkey sarnies and curry, turn over a new leftovers leaf and try this out. And while you're savouring this gorgeous, no-fuss Bejewelled Turkey, Pistachio and Mint Couscous, here's my current favourite Christmas cracker joke to make you chuckle -

What did Santa do when he went speed dating?  He pulled a cracker.

Ho, ho, ho.  Now that's better isn't it?!

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