Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 2 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
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Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and herbs with succulent lamb. Perfect for special occasions or Sunday dinners, this recipe brings a touch of elegance to your table without complicated steps.

Ingredients for Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb

Leg of lamb is the star of this dish, offering a tender and flavorful meat that pairs beautifully with herbs. Olive oil helps to coat the lamb, ensuring the herbs and spices adhere well and infuse their flavors. Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic depth, while fresh rosemary and thyme bring earthy, fragrant notes that complement the lamb perfectly. Kosher salt enhances the natural flavors, and black pepper adds a hint of heat. Finally, lemon juice provides brightness and cuts through the richness of the meat.

Tips & Tricks

  • Let the lamb come to room temperature before roasting for more even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
  • If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can work in a pinch — just use half the amount.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this herb-roasted leg of lamb with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich lamb.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless leg of lamb?
Yes, you can. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts may cook faster.
How can I tell if the lamb is done without a thermometer?
The lamb should feel springy and firm to the touch when pressed. However, a thermometer is recommended for accuracy.

Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that once the lamb is prepared, it can go straight into the heat for an even roast. While the oven is warming up, grab a small bowl and combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients well to create a fragrant herb paste.

Next, place the leg of lamb on a clean surface and begin rubbing the herb mixture all over it. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the lamb; don't be shy here. This step is crucial for flavor, so take your time to ensure even coverage.

Once the lamb is well-seasoned, place it on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. The rack helps the heat to circulate evenly around the lamb, ensuring it roasts to perfection. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let it roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F if you prefer your lamb medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, checking the thickest part without touching the bone.

After the lamb reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy roast when you carve it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple yet elegant — perfect for impressing guests.
  • Uses fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
  • Minimal prep work with maximum taste payoff.
  • Flexible cook time for achieving your ideal doneness.

Ingredients

1 leg of lamb (5-6 lbs)
3 tbsp olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, juiced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb leg, ensuring even coverage.
4. Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
6. Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

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