A rustic, harvest-inspired roast chicken featuring the bright citrus notes of sumac, earthy autumn vegetables, and generous extra virgin olive oil.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (1.5–2 kg)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp ground sumac
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

For the Harvest Vegetables

• 2 red onions, cut into wedges
• 3 carrots, cut into chunks
• 2 sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 fennel bulb, sliced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

To Finish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional sumac for sprinkling
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine:

• Olive oil
• Sumac
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic
• Lemon zest and juice

Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin where possible.

Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Prepare the Vegetables

Toss the vegetables with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Spread them evenly in a large roasting pan.

3. Roast

• Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.
• Roast for approximately 75–90 minutes, or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 75°C (165°F).

Halfway through cooking, stir the vegetables and baste the chicken with the pan juices.

4. Rest and Finish

Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a final dusting of sumac.

Serve with the roasted vegetables and lemon wedges.

Why "After the Harvest"?

This dish celebrates the flavors that arrive when the olive harvest is complete: freshly pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, seasonal root vegetables, fragrant herbs, and the tangy brightness of Sumac. It's the kind of meal traditionally shared around the table after a long day in the groves, when the season's work gives way to good food and company.

Serving Pairings

• Warm flatbread
• Herbed couscous
• Simple tomato and cucumber salad
• Roasted grapes or figs for a sweet contrast

The result is a deeply comforting roast with crisp skin, juicy meat, and vegetables enriched by olive oil and pan juices—perfect for a family gathering or autumn feast.