There are some dishes that simply transport you to another place, and for me, this Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb recipe is one of them. The first time I made this, the aroma alone filled my kitchen with the sun-drenched scents of rosemary, garlic, and lemon, instantly evoking memories of breezy seaside tavernas and the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. My family, usually a tough crowd to please, devoured it with gusto, proclaiming it the best lamb they’d ever tasted. The succulent, fall-off-the-bone tenderness of the lamb, infused with the bright, herbaceous marinade, paired perfectly with a simple side of roasted vegetables and crusty bread. This recipe has since become a cherished staple in our home, perfect for celebratory gatherings or even a special Sunday dinner when we crave a taste of the Mediterranean sunshine. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, yet delivers a restaurant-quality dish that is sure to impress. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both flavorful and effortlessly elegant, look no further – this Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb is your ticket to a culinary journey.
Ingredients
To unlock the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean in this roasted leg of lamb, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the symphony of tastes that define this dish. Let’s delve into the specifics of what you’ll need:
- Leg of Lamb:
- 1 (5-7 pound) Bone-in Leg of Lamb: The star of the show! Opt for a bone-in leg of lamb as it imparts more flavor and helps retain moisture during roasting. A weight range of 5 to 7 pounds will comfortably serve 6-8 people. You can find leg of lamb at most butcher shops and well-stocked grocery stores. Consider asking your butcher to trim any excess fat cap, leaving a thin layer for rendering and flavor.
- Pro-Tip: For even cooking, ensure your leg of lamb is roughly the same thickness throughout. If one end is significantly thicker, you may need to butterfly it slightly or adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Marinade Magic: The marinade is what truly elevates this dish from simple roasted lamb to a Mediterranean masterpiece. It tenderizes the meat, infuses it with vibrant flavors, and creates a delicious crust during roasting.
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, extra virgin olive oil provides richness, flavor, and healthy fats. Choose a good quality olive oil for the best taste.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the marinade, tenderizes the lamb, and adds a signature Mediterranean tang. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for optimal flavor.
- 6-8 Cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic is indispensable in Mediterranean cooking, providing pungent aroma and savory depth. Freshly minced garlic is always preferable to pre-minced for its superior flavor.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Rosemary, chopped: Rosemary brings a distinctive piney, earthy, and aromatic note that perfectly complements lamb. Fresh rosemary is highly recommended, but in a pinch, you can use dried rosemary (use about 1 tablespoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated).
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano, chopped: Oregano adds a slightly peppery, robust flavor that is quintessential to Mediterranean dishes. Fresh oregano is best, but 2 teaspoons of dried oregano can be substituted if needed.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the marinade, ensuring it coats the lamb evenly.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground: Freshly ground black pepper provides a pungent bite and complements the other spices beautifully.
- Vegetables for Roasting (Optional but Highly Recommended): Roasting vegetables alongside the lamb not only adds flavor to the lamb drippings but also creates a complete and satisfying meal.
- 1 pound Small Potatoes, halved or quartered: Potatoes roast beautifully with the lamb, absorbing the flavorful drippings. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work particularly well.
- 1 pound Carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces: Carrots add sweetness and color to the roast.
- 1 Red Onion, cut into wedges: Red onion caramelizes beautifully during roasting, adding a sweet and savory element.
- 1 Bell Pepper (any color), cut into chunks: Bell peppers add sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. Red or yellow bell peppers are particularly flavorful when roasted.
- Optional additions: Feel free to add other Mediterranean-inspired vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
- Garnish (Optional): A fresh garnish adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Fresh Parsley, chopped: Parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- Lemon wedges: Extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the lamb just before serving enhance the bright, Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredient Quality Matters: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in this recipe. Don’t skimp on the olive oil, herbs, and fresh garlic and lemon juice. The difference in taste will be noticeable. Consider sourcing your lamb from a reputable butcher for the best quality meat. Organic and pasture-raised lamb often boasts superior flavor and texture. And when it comes to vegetables, choose seasonal produce for optimal flavor and freshness. By paying attention to the quality of your ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly exceptional Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb.
Instructions
Roasting a leg of lamb might seem intimidating, but this Mediterranean-style recipe is surprisingly straightforward. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can create a stunning and flavorful dish that will impress your family and guests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving perfectly roasted Mediterranean Leg of Lamb:
- Prepare the Marinade (At least 2 hours, ideally overnight):
- In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a homogenous and flavorful marinade.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the marinade and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. Remember that the marinade will infuse the lamb with flavor, so it should be well-seasoned.
- Marinate the Lamb:
- Place the leg of lamb in a large resealable plastic bag or a large, non-reactive dish (glass or ceramic is ideal).
- Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring it coats all sides of the meat. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly and massage the marinade into the lamb. If using a dish, turn the lamb to coat it evenly.
- Marinate Time: Marinate the lamb in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, and ideally overnight, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor penetration and tenderization. The longer the lamb marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. If marinating overnight, turn the lamb occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables (30 minutes before roasting):
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lower temperature roasting ensures tender and juicy lamb.
- While the oven preheats, prepare your vegetables (if using). Wash, peel (if necessary), and cut the potatoes, carrots, red onion, and bell pepper into appropriately sized pieces, as described in the ingredient section.
- Toss Vegetables with Olive Oil and Seasoning: In a separate bowl, toss the prepared vegetables with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add a sprinkle of dried oregano or rosemary to the vegetables for extra flavor.
- Roast the Lamb and Vegetables:
- Remove the lamb from the marinade and place it in a large roasting pan. Reserve the marinade – do not discard it!
- Arrange the vegetables around the leg of lamb in the roasting pan. Spread them in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Add Marinade to Roasting Pan: Pour the reserved marinade over the lamb and vegetables. This will add moisture and flavor during roasting.
- Roasting Time: Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or 25-30 minutes per pound for medium. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
- For Medium-Rare: Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
- For Medium: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- For Medium-Well: Aim for an internal temperature of 150°F (66°C).
- For Well-Done: Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). (Note: Lamb is best enjoyed medium-rare or medium to maintain tenderness).
- Basting (Optional but Recommended): Baste the lamb with the pan juices every 30-45 minutes during roasting. This helps keep the lamb moist and flavorful and encourages browning.
- Rest the Lamb (Crucial Step):
- Once the lamb reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven.
- Transfer the leg of lamb to a cutting board and loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
- Resting Time: Let the lamb rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Do not skip this crucial step! The internal temperature will continue to rise slightly during resting.
- While the lamb rests, continue roasting the vegetables in the oven if they are not yet tender and slightly caramelized.
- Carve and Serve:
- After resting, carve the leg of lamb against the grain into slices. For easier carving, you can separate the shank bone (the thinner end) from the main leg bone before slicing.
- Arrange the sliced lamb on a serving platter, surrounded by the roasted vegetables.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the lamb.
- Serve Immediately: Serve immediately while the lamb is hot and juicy.
Tips for Success:
- Meat Thermometer is Your Best Friend: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the lamb, avoiding the bone.
- Don’t Overcook: Lamb is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium. Overcooked lamb can become dry and tough. Err on the side of slightly undercooked, as the internal temperature will continue to rise during resting.
- Resting is Essential: Resist the temptation to carve the lamb immediately after removing it from the oven. Resting is crucial for tender and juicy results.
- Adjust Roasting Time: Roasting times are estimates and may vary depending on the size and shape of your leg of lamb, as well as your oven. Always rely on a meat thermometer to determine doneness.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. Root vegetables like parsnips and sweet potatoes also roast beautifully with lamb.
By following these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to confidently roast a delicious and impressive Mediterranean-Style Leg of Lamb that will be the centerpiece of any meal. Enjoy the process and the incredible flavors!
Nutrition Facts
(Estimated, per serving – based on 8 servings, using a 6-pound leg of lamb and vegetables as listed)
- Servings: Approximately 8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550-650 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on the fat content of the lamb, the amount of vegetables consumed per serving, and the addition of any side dishes.)
Detailed Breakdown (Approximate):
- Protein: 40-50 grams
- Lamb is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall body function.
- Fat: 35-45 grams
- Includes both saturated and unsaturated fats. While lamb does contain saturated fat, it also provides monounsaturated fats (like oleic acid, also found in olive oil), which are considered heart-healthy. The use of olive oil in this recipe further contributes to healthy fats.
- Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
- Primarily from the roasted vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions, bell peppers). These provide fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
- From the vegetables, contributing to digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin B12: Lamb is a rich source of Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
- Iron: Lamb provides heme iron, which is highly absorbable by the body, important for preventing iron deficiency.
- Zinc: Lamb is a good source of zinc, essential for immune function, wound healing, and cell growth.
- Selenium: Lamb contains selenium, an antioxidant that protects against cell damage.
- Vitamins from Vegetables: The roasted vegetables contribute vitamins A, C, K, and various B vitamins, as well as potassium and other minerals.
Important Considerations:
- Fat Content: The calorie and fat content can vary significantly depending on the cut of lamb and how much fat is trimmed. Leg of lamb is generally leaner than other cuts, but trimming visible fat before cooking can further reduce fat content.
- Serving Size: These nutrition facts are based on an estimated serving size. Adjust portion sizes to meet your individual dietary needs and calorie goals.
- Side Dishes: The nutritional profile of your overall meal will be influenced by the side dishes you choose to serve with the roasted lamb. Opt for healthy side dishes like salads, whole grains, or steamed vegetables to maintain a balanced meal.
- Mediterranean Diet Benefits: This recipe aligns well with the principles of the Mediterranean Diet, which is known for its health benefits, including heart health, brain health, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. The emphasis on lean protein (lamb), healthy fats (olive oil), fresh vegetables, and herbs makes this a nutritious and flavorful meal choice.
Disclaimer: These nutrition facts are estimates and should be considered as a general guideline. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient details and brands. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional.
Preparation Time
Planning your cooking schedule is essential, especially for a dish like roasted leg of lamb that benefits from marinating. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time for this Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb recipe:
- Prep Time (Marinade & Vegetable Preparation): 30-40 minutes
- This includes the time to gather all ingredients, mince garlic, chop herbs, juice lemons, and whisk together the marinade.
- It also includes washing, peeling, and chopping the vegetables (if using).
- Marinating Time: Minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight (8-24 hours)
- While the lamb is marinating, this time is mostly hands-off. You can use this time for other meal preparations or simply relax.
- Cook Time (Roasting): 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours (depending on desired doneness and lamb size)
- This is the active cooking time in the oven. Basting takes a few minutes every 30-45 minutes.
- Resting Time: 15-20 minutes
- Essential for tender and juicy lamb. This is also hands-off time.
Total Time (Approximate):
- Minimum (with 2 hours marinating): Approximately 4 hours (including prep, marinating, cooking, and resting)
- Ideal (with overnight marinating): Approximately 16-26 hours (including overnight marinating, prep, cooking, and resting)
Time Management Tips:
- Marinate Ahead: The marinade can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This can save you time on the day of cooking. Marinating the lamb overnight is highly recommended for optimal flavor and tenderness.
- Vegetable Prep in Advance: Vegetables can be washed and chopped a day ahead and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Weekend Cooking: This recipe is perfect for a weekend meal, allowing ample time for marinating and slow roasting.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once the lamb is in the oven, the roasting process is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on preparing side dishes, setting the table, or spending time with family and guests.
- Efficient Workflow: While the oven is preheating, prepare the vegetables. While the lamb is roasting, you can prepare any side dishes or salads you plan to serve. While the lamb is resting, finish up any last-minute preparations.
By understanding the preparation timeline, you can plan accordingly and ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. The marinating time is crucial for flavor development, so don’t rush this step. The rest of the process is relatively straightforward and rewarding.
How to Serve
Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying Mediterranean feast:
- Classic Sides:
- Roasted Vegetables (Prepared with the Lamb): The vegetables roasted alongside the lamb are a natural and delicious accompaniment, perfectly infused with the lamb drippings and marinade flavors.
- Greek Salad (Horiatiki Salad): A refreshing and vibrant Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. Its freshness cuts through the richness of the lamb beautifully.
- Lemon Roasted Potatoes: If you want extra potatoes, lemon roasted potatoes are a perfect side. They complement the lemon flavors in the lamb marinade.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf, perhaps with orzo or couscous mixed in, adds a comforting carbohydrate element. Consider adding toasted pine nuts or almonds and fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Bread and Dips:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread, such as baguette, ciabatta, or pita bread, for soaking up the delicious pan juices and serving alongside the lamb.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A classic Greek yogurt and cucumber dip with garlic, dill, and lemon. Tzatziki provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the rich lamb.
- Hummus: Creamy hummus, made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, is another excellent Mediterranean dip to serve with bread or vegetables alongside the lamb.
- Baba Ghanoush: Smoky baba ghanoush, made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, offers a flavorful and healthy dip option.
- Wine Pairings:
- Red Wine: Lamb pairs exceptionally well with red wines. Consider:
- Greek Red Wines: Agiorgitiko (from Nemea) or Xinomavro (from Naoussa) are excellent Greek red wine choices that complement Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
- Mediterranean Reds: French Rhône Valley reds (like Côtes du Rhône), Spanish Rioja, or Italian Chianti Classico are also great options with their earthy and savory notes.
- Medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot: Classic choices that pair well with roasted lamb.
- Rosé Wine: A dry rosé, especially from Provence or the Mediterranean region, can be a refreshing and versatile pairing, particularly for a lighter meal or warmer weather.
- Red Wine: Lamb pairs exceptionally well with red wines. Consider:
- Serving Occasions:
- Family Dinner: Perfect for a special Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal when you want to elevate the everyday.
- Holiday Feast: An impressive centerpiece for Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional turkey or ham.
- Gatherings and Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and elegant meal.
- Outdoor BBQ or Grill (Indirect Heat): While this recipe is for oven roasting, leg of lamb can also be adapted for grilling using indirect heat for a smoky flavor.
- Presentation Tips:
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the sliced lamb attractively on a large platter, surrounded by the roasted vegetables.
- Garnish: Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges. You can also add fresh rosemary sprigs or oregano sprigs for visual appeal.
- Serve Family-Style: Place the platter of lamb and vegetables in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves, creating a communal and inviting dining experience.
- Warm Plates: Serving on warm plates helps keep the lamb and vegetables hot for longer, enhancing the dining experience.
By considering these serving suggestions, you can create a complete Mediterranean meal around your Roasted Leg of Lamb, making it a memorable and enjoyable culinary experience for yourself and your guests.
Additional Tips for Perfect Roasted Leg of Lamb
Elevate your Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb from delicious to extraordinary with these five additional tips, gleaned from years of roasting and refining this recipe:
- Score the Fat Cap for Crispy Skin and Deeper Flavor: Before marinating, use a sharp knife to score the fat cap of the leg of lamb in a crosshatch pattern. Be careful not to cut into the meat itself, just the fat layer. Scoring allows the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, and during roasting, the fat will render and crisp up beautifully, creating a flavorful and textural contrast. The rendered fat also bastes the lamb from within, adding extra moisture and flavor.
- Bring Lamb to Room Temperature Before Roasting: Take the leg of lamb out of the refrigerator about 1-2 hours before you plan to roast it. Allowing the lamb to come closer to room temperature before cooking helps it roast more evenly. Cold meat placed directly into a hot oven can result in uneven cooking, with the outside cooking faster than the inside. Bringing it to room temperature promotes more consistent cooking throughout the roast.
- Use a Meat Thermometer AND Touch Test: While a meat thermometer is essential for accuracy, learn to also use the touch test to gauge doneness. For medium-rare, the lamb should feel similar to the fleshy part of your cheek when pressed; for medium, it should feel slightly firmer, like your chin. Combining the meat thermometer reading with the touch test gives you a more holistic assessment of the lamb’s doneness. Remember to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the lamb, avoiding the bone.
- Create a Flavorful Pan Sauce from Pan Drippings (Optional but Highly Recommended): Don’t let those delicious pan drippings go to waste! After removing the lamb and vegetables from the roasting pan, place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Skim off excess fat. Add a splash of red wine or broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom. Simmer for a few minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. You can thicken the sauce slightly with a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) if desired. Strain the sauce for a smoother texture, and serve it alongside the carved lamb for an extra layer of flavor.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Adjust Seasoning Throughout the Process: Taste and adjust seasoning at various stages. Taste the marinade before marinating the lamb and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Taste the pan juices during roasting and add more salt or pepper if necessary. Even after resting, taste a slice of lamb and add a sprinkle of salt or pepper to taste, if needed. Seasoning is crucial for flavor, and adjusting it throughout the process ensures a perfectly balanced and delicious final dish.
By incorporating these additional tips into your cooking process, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of roasting Mediterranean-Style Leg of Lamb and consistently creating a dish that is not only flavorful but also perfectly cooked and incredibly tender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are five frequently asked questions about Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb, to help you confidently prepare this delicious recipe:
Q1: Can I use a boneless leg of lamb for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a boneless leg of lamb. However, a bone-in leg of lamb is generally preferred as the bone adds flavor and helps retain moisture during roasting, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful roast. If using boneless, the cooking time might be slightly shorter, so monitor the internal temperature closely with a meat thermometer. Boneless leg of lamb is often easier to carve. You may need to tie a boneless leg of lamb with kitchen twine to help it maintain its shape during roasting.
Q2: What if I don’t have fresh rosemary or oregano? Can I use dried herbs?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried rosemary and oregano if fresh herbs are not available. However, fresh herbs always provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. When substituting dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated than fresh herbs. As a general guideline, use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs. So, for this recipe, you would use approximately 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary and 2 teaspoons of dried oregano. Rehydrate dried herbs slightly by rubbing them between your fingers before adding them to the marinade to release their aroma.
Q3: How do I store leftover roasted leg of lamb, and how long will it last?
A: Store leftover roasted leg of lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked lamb will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, you can slice the lamb and gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little olive oil or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F/120°C) covered with foil until warmed through. Avoid reheating lamb multiple times, as this can affect its texture and flavor. Leftover roasted lamb is also delicious cold in sandwiches, salads, or wraps.
Q4: Can I prepare the lamb further in advance than overnight marinating?
A: While marinating overnight is ideal for flavor development, marinating for longer than 24 hours is generally not recommended. Excessive marinating, especially with acidic marinades like lemon juice, can sometimes cause the meat to become mushy in texture. If you need to prepare further in advance, you can make the marinade up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Then, marinate the lamb for the recommended time (2-24 hours) before roasting.
Q5: Can I roast other vegetables with the lamb besides the ones listed?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetables roasted with the lamb based on your preferences and what’s in season. Other excellent Mediterranean-inspired vegetables to roast alongside lamb include:
* Eggplant: Cut into cubes or slices.
* Zucchini: Cut into chunks.
* Artichoke Hearts: Canned or frozen artichoke hearts (halved or quartered).
* Cherry Tomatoes: Add them towards the end of roasting to prevent them from bursting too much.
* Fennel: Cut into wedges.
* Parsnips: Cut into chunks, similar to carrots.
* Sweet Potatoes: Cut into chunks, similar to potatoes.
Ensure that vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even roasting. Root vegetables like potatoes and carrots may require a slightly longer roasting time than softer vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Add more delicate vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini towards the end of the roasting time to prevent them from becoming overcooked.
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Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb Recipe
Ingredients
- Leg of Lamb:
- 1 (5-7 pound) Bone-in Leg of Lamb: The star of the show! Opt for a bone-in leg of lamb as it imparts more flavor and helps retain moisture during roasting. A weight range of 5 to 7 pounds will comfortably serve 6-8 people. You can find leg of lamb at most butcher shops and well-stocked grocery stores. Consider asking your butcher to trim any excess fat cap, leaving a thin layer for rendering and flavor.
- Pro-Tip: For even cooking, ensure your leg of lamb is roughly the same thickness throughout. If one end is significantly thicker, you may need to butterfly it slightly or adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Marinade Magic: The marinade is what truly elevates this dish from simple roasted lamb to a Mediterranean masterpiece. It tenderizes the meat, infuses it with vibrant flavors, and creates a delicious crust during roasting.
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, extra virgin olive oil provides richness, flavor, and healthy fats. Choose a good quality olive oil for the best taste.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the marinade, tenderizes the lamb, and adds a signature Mediterranean tang. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for optimal flavor.
- 6–8 Cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic is indispensable in Mediterranean cooking, providing pungent aroma and savory depth. Freshly minced garlic is always preferable to pre-minced for its superior flavor.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Rosemary, chopped: Rosemary brings a distinctive piney, earthy, and aromatic note that perfectly complements lamb. Fresh rosemary is highly recommended, but in a pinch, you can use dried rosemary (use about 1 tablespoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated).
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano, chopped: Oregano adds a slightly peppery, robust flavor that is quintessential to Mediterranean dishes. Fresh oregano is best, but 2 teaspoons of dried oregano can be substituted if needed.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the marinade, ensuring it coats the lamb evenly.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground: Freshly ground black pepper provides a pungent bite and complements the other spices beautifully.
- Vegetables for Roasting (Optional but Highly Recommended): Roasting vegetables alongside the lamb not only adds flavor to the lamb drippings but also creates a complete and satisfying meal.
- 1 pound Small Potatoes, halved or quartered: Potatoes roast beautifully with the lamb, absorbing the flavorful drippings. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work particularly well.
- 1 pound Carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces: Carrots add sweetness and color to the roast.
- 1 Red Onion, cut into wedges: Red onion caramelizes beautifully during roasting, adding a sweet and savory element.
- 1 Bell Pepper (any color), cut into chunks: Bell peppers add sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. Red or yellow bell peppers are particularly flavorful when roasted.
- Optional additions: Feel free to add other Mediterranean-inspired vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
- Garnish (Optional): A fresh garnish adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Fresh Parsley, chopped: Parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- Lemon wedges: Extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the lamb just before serving enhance the bright, Mediterranean flavors.
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade (At least 2 hours, ideally overnight):
- In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a homogenous and flavorful marinade.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the marinade and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. Remember that the marinade will infuse the lamb with flavor, so it should be well-seasoned.
- Marinate the Lamb:
- Place the leg of lamb in a large resealable plastic bag or a large, non-reactive dish (glass or ceramic is ideal).
- Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring it coats all sides of the meat. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly and massage the marinade into the lamb. If using a dish, turn the lamb to coat it evenly.
- Marinate Time: Marinate the lamb in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, and ideally overnight, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor penetration and tenderization. The longer the lamb marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. If marinating overnight, turn the lamb occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables (30 minutes before roasting):
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lower temperature roasting ensures tender and juicy lamb.
- While the oven preheats, prepare your vegetables (if using). Wash, peel (if necessary), and cut the potatoes, carrots, red onion, and bell pepper into appropriately sized pieces, as described in the ingredient section.
- Toss Vegetables with Olive Oil and Seasoning: In a separate bowl, toss the prepared vegetables with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add a sprinkle of dried oregano or rosemary to the vegetables for extra flavor.
- Roast the Lamb and Vegetables:
- Remove the lamb from the marinade and place it in a large roasting pan. Reserve the marinade – do not discard it!
- Arrange the vegetables around the leg of lamb in the roasting pan. Spread them in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Add Marinade to Roasting Pan: Pour the reserved marinade over the lamb and vegetables. This will add moisture and flavor during roasting.
- Roasting Time: Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound for medium-rare, or 25-30 minutes per pound for medium. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
- For Medium-Rare: Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
- For Medium: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- For Medium-Well: Aim for an internal temperature of 150°F (66°C).
- For Well-Done: Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). (Note: Lamb is best enjoyed medium-rare or medium to maintain tenderness).
- Basting (Optional but Recommended): Baste the lamb with the pan juices every 30-45 minutes during roasting. This helps keep the lamb moist and flavorful and encourages browning.
- Rest the Lamb (Crucial Step):
- Once the lamb reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven.
- Transfer the leg of lamb to a cutting board and loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
- Resting Time: Let the lamb rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Do not skip this crucial step! The internal temperature will continue to rise slightly during resting.
- While the lamb rests, continue roasting the vegetables in the oven if they are not yet tender and slightly caramelized.
- Carve and Serve:
- After resting, carve the leg of lamb against the grain into slices. For easier carving, you can separate the shank bone (the thinner end) from the main leg bone before slicing.
- Arrange the sliced lamb on a serving platter, surrounded by the roasted vegetables.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the lamb.
- Serve Immediately: Serve immediately while the lamb is hot and juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One Normal Portion
- Calories: 550-650
- Fat: 35-45 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
- Protein: 40-50 grams