Indulge in the culinary delight of a French classic with our exquisite Lamb Roulade with Fresh Goat Cheese! Imagine tender lamb, expertly rolled and filled with creamy goat cheese and fragrant herbs, creating a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also impresses at any dinner table. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal, this recipe is a showstopper that will have your guests asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to be a feast for both the eyes and the palate!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb leg, boneless
- 8 oz fresh goat cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the oven is at the right temperature when you are ready to cook the lamb roulade.
- Prepare the lamb leg by trimming any excess fat. Place the lamb on a clean cutting board, and using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the lamb leg by slicing it horizontally, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Open it like a book to create an even surface for rolling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh goat cheese, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, and rosemary). Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly over the opened lamb leg, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spillage when rolling.
- Starting from one end, carefully roll the lamb leg tightly, tucking in the filling as you go. Once rolled, secure the roulade with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep it together during cooking. Ensure it is tightly rolled to maintain its shape.
- Season the outside of the roulade generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the roulade, ensuring it is evenly coated. This will help achieve a nice golden crust during cooking.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the lamb roulade on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and helps to lock in the juices.
- Once the roulade is browned, transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven. Roast the lamb for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is typically around 135°F or 57°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Once cooked, remove the lamb roulade from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- After resting, carefully remove the kitchen twine or toothpicks. Slice the roulade into medallions about 1-inch thick, showcasing the beautiful filling inside.
- Serve the lamb roulade warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, to complete the meal.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your lamb roulade will depend heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for a fresh, high-quality boneless lamb leg and artisanal goat cheese for the best results.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs according to your taste. Fresh basil or oregano can add a unique twist to the filling.
- Butterfly with Care: When butterflying the lamb leg, take your time to ensure an even thickness. This will help it cook evenly and make rolling much easier.
- Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the roulade before roasting locks in flavors and creates a delicious crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. Aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, and remember that the meat will continue to cook slightly while resting.
- Rest Before Slicing: Letting the roulade rest after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy.
- Presentation Matters: When slicing, aim for 1-inch thick medallions to showcase the beautiful filling. A garnish of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your lamb roulade with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal that your guests will adore.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
