Description
A succulent leg of lamb seasoned with Mediterranean herbs, spices, and citrus, roasted to perfection. This flavorful dish is ideal for special occasions and pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-style side dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 leg of lamb (about 4–5 lbs), bone-in or boneless
- 4–6 garlic cloves, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Lamb: Trim excess fat from the lamb if needed. Make small slits all over the lamb’s surface and insert garlic slices into the slits.
- Make the Marinade: Combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then rub the mixture all over the lamb.
- Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb in a roasting pan. Add white wine (or chicken broth) and water to the pan. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. Baste every 30 minutes. Check doneness with a meat thermometer:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Rest the Lamb: Remove the lamb from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
- Make the Sauce (Optional): Simmer the pan drippings on the stovetop, adding extra broth or water if needed. Stir and scrape up any bits from the pan.
- Carve and Serve: Slice the lamb and serve with Mediterranean sides such as roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste and use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Baste regularly to maintain moisture and flavor.
- The optional sauce can enhance the dish further with the pan drippings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg