Description
Mediterranean-Style Roasted Leg of Lamb features a succulent leg of lamb marinated with a blend of aromatic herbs, warm spices, and zesty lemon. Roasted to perfection, this dish is ideal for festive occasions or a special dinner, offering rich, savory flavors with a Mediterranean flair.
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, leaving a thin layer. Make small slits all over the lamb’s surface and insert garlic slices into the slits.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the lamb.
- Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb in a roasting pan. Pour white wine (or chicken broth) and water into the pan. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. Baste every 30 minutes. For doneness:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Rest the Lamb: Once done, remove from oven and cover loosely with foil. 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, to make a quick sauce.
- Carve and Serve: Slice the lamb and serve with Mediterranean sides like roasted vegetables, couscous, or salad.
Notes
- Ensure the lamb is well-coated with the marinade for optimal flavor.
- Baste the lamb regularly to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 hour to 2
- 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