Our food philosophy at A&D isn’t all about what is exactly in front of you but the people and atmosphere that surrounds you. We believe food that can be shared and passed around gives you that feeling of family and especially at this time of the year. Togetherness is what we think is the most important element of the festive season.

You don’t want to overcomplicate your food; think hearty dishes that can be prepped ahead of time and thrown in the oven just before your guests arrive! If you need a helping hand Chef Santiago Mancini has put together a wholesome and easy recipe that all fits in one pan!

Ingredients
1 whole large chicken
a bunch of thyme
4 whole garlic
2 tablespoons of virgin olive oil
4 knobs unsalted butter
1 lemon 
12 fingerling potatoes
6 turnips
½ a local pumpkin
2lbs. Brussel sprouts

In a cast iron pan, sear the chicken on the breast side. With the crashed whole garlic and thyme until is golden brown, add the knobs of butter and baste the chicken, set aside to rest.
Season the veggies and the potatoes with salt and pepper olive oil, add thyme and garlic and into the cast iron pan, roast in the oven at 350* for at least 20-25 minutes. Add the chicken to the pan and roast for another 15-20 mins per pound (this all depends how big your chicken is.)

This recipe is so easy to make; this dish can feed up to 4 people so if you need to make two it’s easy enough to do so. If you want to add an extra side dish we recommend some roasted asparagus with almonds and asiago. These flavours are so bold and gives that little bit of zest to your dish.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds of asparagus
• 2 tablespoons of virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1/3 cup pre-sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus lemon wedges, for serving
• 2 ounces Asiago cheese, shaved (1 cup)

 
You can put these in with your chicken for the last 25 minutes. On a baking sheet, place asparagus with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and roast for 22-26 minutes, until tender. Meanwhile, toast your almonds for 5 minutes, until golden. When ready to serve drizzle lemon juice, asiago cheese, salt and pepper and almonds on top.
 
That’s it folks, you’re all set for the perfect Christmas get-together! Get on the phone and invite your favourite people around for a beautiful A&D inspired dinner and don’t forget to take some pictures and tag us on Instagram!
 
Happy Holidays from all of us at Anchor & Den!