Herbed Leg of Lamb

Herbed Leg of Lamb Recipe from Greece - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 16

Introduction

Herbed Leg of Lamb is a classic dish that is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. The combination of tender lamb with aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and delicious meal that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Leg of lamb has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in many different cultures around the world. The addition of herbs such as rosemary and pepper adds a unique twist to this traditional dish, giving it a modern and flavorful touch.

Ingredients

2 (8 lb (3.63 kg)) legs of lamb
1 tbsp cooking spray
4 tsp salt
0.75 tsp ground pepper
0.75 tsp fresh rosemary leaves

How to prepare

Place the lamb, with the thin side facing up, in a deep roasting pan.
Brush cooking spray over the lamb.
Combine salt, ground pepper, and rosemary. Coat the mixture over the lamb.
Bake in an oven preheated to 400°F (204°C) for approximately 3 hours.
Allow the lamb to stand for 2 minutes before carving.

Variations

Try using different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or mint for a unique flavor profile.
Add garlic or lemon zest to the herb mixture for an extra kick of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the lamb rest for a few minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

- For a crispy exterior, sear the lamb in a hot pan before roasting in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Herbed Leg of Lamb with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh rosemary, you can use dried rosemary instead. Just use half the amount called for in the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the lamb in the herb mixture overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Herbed Leg of Lamb with fresh herbs and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a bold red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

Proteins

- Protein: 48g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 2%

- Vitamin C: 0%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This Herbed Leg of Lamb recipe is a rich source of protein and iron, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option for meat lovers.

Summary

Herbed Leg of Lamb is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for any special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and tender meal that will delight your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Herbed Leg of Lamb. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my dear grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques, and I was determined to soak up as much knowledge as I could from her.

One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I came across a faded index card with the words "Herbed Leg of Lamb" scrawled across it in elegant script. Intrigued, I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled and told me it was one of her favorites.

She explained that she had learned how to make it from a dear friend many years ago, who had passed down the recipe to her. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest made for a flavorful and tender roast that was always a hit with family and friends.

Excited to try my hand at making this delicious dish, I asked my grandmother to show me how to prepare it. She patiently walked me through each step, from marinating the meat to roasting it to perfection. I watched intently as she expertly seasoned the lamb with a blend of rosemary, thyme, oregano, and garlic, then let it sit in the fridge overnight to absorb all the flavors.

The next day, we roasted the marinated leg of lamb in the oven, basting it with its own juices to ensure it stayed moist and tender. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into the succulent meat.

When the timer finally went off, we pulled the roasted leg of lamb out of the oven and let it rest before slicing into it. The meat was perfectly cooked, with a golden brown crust and juicy pink center. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and memories, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Herbed Leg of Lamb countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I swap out the herbs for a different blend, or add a splash of red wine to the marinade for extra depth of flavor. No matter how I choose to prepare it, this recipe always brings me back to that moment in my grandmother's kitchen, learning from the best.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope they too will find joy and satisfaction in cooking as I have. And I hope that they will remember the love and care that goes into preparing a homemade meal, just as I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Herbed Leg of Lamb all those years ago.