Are you looking for easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition? Do you crave delicious, homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This collection of "Eat This Book" recipes focuses on simple, healthy dishes perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend brunches. We'll explore quick dinner ideas, healthy meals bursting with flavor, and best recipes that are surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to transform your cooking routine and enjoy the goodness of homemade food!
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
This recipe is a classic for a reason: it's simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. It’s the perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and nutritious homemade cooking. This recipe is also a great option for a quick dinner, ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, Herbes de Provence, or a custom blend of rosemary, thyme, and oregano)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly.
- Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken and pat it dry. Place lemon slices inside the chicken cavity.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.
- Prepare the vegetables: Toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Roast: Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken.
- Cook: Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the vegetables are tender. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's doneness.
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic cloves to the roasting pan with the vegetables.
- If you prefer crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
- Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. A sprinkle of paprika or cumin adds a delicious smoky touch.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Vegetables recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the ease of this recipe and the satisfaction of creating a flavorful, homemade dinner. Remember to explore the numerous possibilities by trying out different variations and customizing it to your taste! Happy cooking!