Are you ready to transport your dinner table to the sun-drenched hills of Greece with the most mouthwatering leg of lamb recipe you've ever tasted? Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Greek-inspired leg of lamb isn't just a meal - it's a flavor explosion that combines traditional Mediterranean techniques with irresistible aromatics that will make your kitchen smell like a seaside taverna in Athens.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 leg of lamb
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your leg of lamb cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the leg of lamb by trimming any excess fat if necessary. This will help reduce grease and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat better.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the leg of lamb, ensuring it is evenly coated. Pay special attention to any crevices or folds in the meat to maximize flavor absorption.
- Place the marinated leg of lamb in a roasting pan. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the meat, allowing the acidity to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the lamb.
- Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture during the initial cooking phase.
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for 2 hours. The foil will help keep the lamb juicy and tender.
- After 2 hours, remove the foil from the roasting pan. This will allow the surface of the lamb to brown and develop a delicious crust.
- Continue to roast the leg of lamb for an additional 30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should be around 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked to your liking, remove the leg of lamb from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- After resting, carve the leg of lamb into slices and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch.
- Serve the leg of lamb with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or rice, to create a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality leg of lamb with good marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Allow the lamb to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even roasting.
- Don't skip the marinating step - the garlic, olive oil, and oregano are crucial for authentic Greek flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to achieve your perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Let the lamb rest after cooking to ensure the juices redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly moist.
- For extra authenticity, serve with tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad on the side.
- If possible, use fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano for the most vibrant flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 446kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
