Athens Ambrosia

Introduction

Originating from the heart of Greece, Athens Ambrosia is a dish steeped in rich culinary tradition and culture. This dish captures the essence of Athens, bringing together flavors that speak of history, nature, and artistic expression. Rooted in ancient Greek traditions, Ambrosia was known as the "food of the gods," offering an otherworldly culinary experience. Over time, this dish has evolved, incorporating modern twists while still maintaining its classical allure.

Ingredients

• Chicken - 1 whole, about 3-4 pounds
• Olive Oil - 4 tablespoons
• Lemon - 2, juiced and zested
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Rosemary - 2 sprigs
• Thyme - 2 sprigs
• Oregano - 1 teaspoon dried
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Potatoes - 4 large, peeled and quartered
• Feta Cheese - 200g, crumbled
• Black Olives - 1 cup, pitted
• Tomato - 3, diced
• Cucumber - 1, diced
• Red Onion - 1 small, sliced
• Parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Preparation

Marinade Preparation

Begun by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, the juice and zest of lemons, minced garlic, sprigs of rosemary and thyme, and dried oregano. Season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Chicken Preparation

Place the whole chicken in a roasting pan and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it is well-coated. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for a more intense flavor.

Vegetable Preparation

As the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. In a bowl, toss potatoes with some more olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the potatoes to the roasting pan around the chicken.

Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the roasting pan in the oven. Let the chicken roast, basting it periodically with the pan juices for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check your timer by clicking here for precise scheduling.

Salad Preparation

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cucumbers, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and black olives. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss everything together to combine.

Serving Suggestions

Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve slices of chicken alongside roasted potatoes and a generous serving of Greek salad. Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing glass of iced tea to complement the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Enjoying Athens Ambrosia

Enjoying Athens Ambrosia is about more than just indulging in delicious food. It's an experience that connects you to the heritage and flavors of Greece. As you savor each bite, take a moment to appreciate the harmonious blend of traditional ingredients, celebrating the legacy of Greek cuisine in every mouthful.