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Roasted Leg of Lamb Recipe Easy Garlic Rosemary for Perfect Dinner

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A straightforward and flavorful roasted leg of lamb recipe featuring a garlic and rosemary paste that creates a crispy, herb-crusted exterior and tender, juicy meat inside. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 pounds bone-in leg of lamb
  • 68 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Trim the lamb by removing thick fat caps but leave a thin layer to keep the meat moist. Score the surface lightly in a crisscross pattern about 1/4 inch deep.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, lemon zest (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
  4. Pat the leg dry with paper towels, then massage the garlic-rosemary paste all over the lamb evenly. Let the lamb rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  5. Place the lamb fat side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
  6. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the leg, avoiding the bone. Roast for approximately 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare (about 1 hour 20 minutes for a 4-pound leg). Adjust time for desired doneness.
  7. Check the internal temperature aiming for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  8. Remove the lamb from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
  9. Carve against the grain into thick slices and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Bring the lamb to room temperature before roasting for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the lamb rest after roasting to lock in juices. Tent with foil if crust browns too fast. The garlic-rosemary rub can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted leg of lamb, garlic rosemary lamb, easy lamb recipe, holiday dinner, family dinner, herb crusted lamb