Roast Leg of Lamb with Orzo

Roast Leg of Lamb with Orzo Recipe from Greece

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Roast Leg of Lamb with Orzo is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. The combination of tender lamb and flavorful orzo pasta is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

History

This recipe has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where lamb is a popular meat choice. The addition of orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, adds a unique twist to the traditional roast leg of lamb dish. The flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs come together to create a mouthwatering and unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, sliced
0.5 tsp dry mint
0.5 tsp (or more) dried basil
Pinch of oregano
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 x 5 lb (2.27 kg) leg of lamb or shoulder of lamb
2 onions, chopped
1 x 3 lb (1.36 kg) can plum tomatoes
7 cups chicken broth
2 cups orzo
0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Combine the lemon juice, garlic, mint, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and mix well.
Rub the lamb all over with the mixture.
Place the lamb in a roasting pan, adding the onion around it, and roast for 20 minutes.
Spread the tomatoes around the meat and stir in 2 cups of chicken broth.
Return the pan to the oven, lower the heat to 350°F, and roast for 40 minutes more.
Remove the pan from the oven and lightly cover it with a towel to keep warm.
Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil and slowly add the orzo.
Stir, lower the heat, and cover.
Simmer until the orzo is tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Remove the lamb from the roasting pan, adding the remaining 1 cup of broth.
Stir in the orzo, place the lamb back in the pan, and cook for 15 minutes more in a 350°F (177°C) oven.
Stir the pan juices and the orzo together again to mix well.
Serve the lamb on a warm platter surrounded by the orzo.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the orzo.

Variations

Try using different herbs and spices to change up the flavor profile of the dish.
Substitute the lamb with chicken or beef for a different twist on the recipe.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the orzo for added nutrition and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rub the lamb with the lemon and herb mixture thoroughly to ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat.

- Roasting the lamb at a high temperature initially helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior.

- Adding the tomatoes and chicken broth to the roasting pan helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

- Cooking the orzo separately and then combining it with the pan juices and lamb creates a delicious and creamy side dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. A glass of red wine pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the lamb and orzo.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the lamb at a high temperature initially helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior. Cooking the orzo separately and then combining it with the pan juices and lamb creates a delicious and creamy side dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orzo pasta, you can substitute with rice or another type of pasta. You can also use different cuts of lamb, such as lamb chops or lamb shanks, in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lemon and herb mixture for the lamb ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. The orzo can also be cooked in advance and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the lamb on a large platter surrounded by the orzo, and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. A glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the flavors of the lamb and orzo.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the lamb and orzo in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F (177°C) oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Roast Leg of Lamb with Orzo contains approximately 500 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Carbohydrates

Orzo is a type of pasta that is high in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy for your body. Each serving of this dish contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The lamb in this recipe is a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Lamb is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Each serving of this dish contains approximately 40 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Lamb is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and iron. These nutrients are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and energy levels.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (orzo pasta), so it may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Roast Leg of Lamb with Orzo is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. The combination of tender lamb, zesty lemon, and creamy orzo pasta creates a meal that is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Roast Leg of Lamb with Orzo. It was a sunny afternoon in the springtime, and I was visiting a friend in the countryside. She had invited me over for a Sunday lunch, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most mouthwatering aroma.

My friend was busy preparing the roast leg of lamb, and I watched with fascination as she seasoned the meat with garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest. The scent of the herbs filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. As the lamb roasted in the oven, my friend told me about her family's tradition of serving it with orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta that was cooked in the lamb's drippings for extra flavor.

I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and textures, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. My friend was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I made a mental note to try it out at home.

Over the years, I have made this roast leg of lamb with orzo many times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have experimented with different herbs and spices, and I have even tried using different types of pasta to accompany the lamb. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the flavors always remind me of that sunny afternoon in the countryside, watching my friend cook with such love and care.

One of my favorite memories of making this dish was when my grandchildren came to visit. They had never tried lamb before, and I was excited to introduce them to this traditional recipe. As I seasoned the meat and prepared the orzo, my grandchildren watched with wide eyes, eager to taste the finished dish.

When the roast leg of lamb emerged from the oven, golden brown and succulent, the children's mouths watered in anticipation. I served the lamb with a generous portion of orzo, and as the family sat down to eat, I watched with delight as my grandchildren took their first bite.

Their faces lit up with joy as they savored the rich flavors of the lamb and the tender pasta. They exclaimed that it was the best meal they had ever tasted, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. It was moments like these that made all the hours spent in the kitchen worth it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the countless times I have made this roast leg of lamb with orzo, I am grateful for the memories it has given me. Each time I cook this dish, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in the countryside, watching my friend work her magic in the kitchen.

I am reminded of the joy and laughter shared with my grandchildren as they tasted this dish for the first time. And most of all, I am grateful for the love and connection that food has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a way for me to express myself and create memories with those I hold dear.

And as I continue to share this recipe with friends and family, I hope that it will bring them as much joy and happiness as it has brought me. The simple act of cooking and sharing a meal has the power to create lifelong memories and strengthen bonds that last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly grateful.