Welcome to the Stress-Free Mains & Sides section for 2021 “Year of Calm” Christmas Club.

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🍗 Gentle Roast Chicken with Lemon & Thyme

Why It’s Calm

A lighter, aromatic alternative to turkey — this roast chicken is tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Minimal fuss, maximum comfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs / 1.8–2.3 kg)
• 2 lemons, halved
• 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
• 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat chicken dry, season inside and out with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff cavity with lemon halves, garlic, and thyme.
4. Rub olive oil over skin.
5. Roast in a roasting pan for 1 hr 20 min – 1 hr 30 min, basting occasionally, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest 15 minutes before carving.

Serving Tip: Slice and serve with pan juices or a simple gravy.

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🥕 Rosemary & Honey Root Vegetable Tray Bake

Why It’s Calm

Colorful, nourishing, and hands-off — a one-pan side that fills the kitchen with comforting aromas.

Ingredients:

• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 3 parsnips, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, honey, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway, until tender and golden.

Serving Tip: Serve warm as a side to Gentle Roast Chicken or on its own for a light, calming meal.

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🥗 Citrus & Pomegranate Winter Salad

Why It’s Calm

Bright, refreshing, and soothing to prepare — a crisp salad that balances richer mains.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed winter greens
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup toasted almonds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
2. Toss greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, and almonds with dressing.
3. Serve immediately.

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These three recipes create a stress-free, calm main course that’s easy to prep, minimal-stress, and full of flavor — perfect for your 2021 theme.

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