- Too 'gamey'?
- Trim excess hard fat before cooking; that's where the strong flavor concentrates. Lemon and garlic also help neutralize it.
- When is it done?
- Use a thermometer! 130°F for Rare, 140-145°F for Medium. Lamb is best served pink.
Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb with Vegetables
Lamb has a distinctive flavor that can be divisive, but with the right seasoning (rosemary, garlic) and gentle heat, it becomes sublime. Slow roasting softens the meat fibers, while the vegetables roasting alongside absorb the delicious drippings.
Ingredients
3-3 1/2
lbs
Leg of Lamb (bone-in or boneless)
5
cloves
Garlic
3
sprigs
Fresh Rosemary
3
sprigs
Fresh Thyme
4
tbsp
Olive Oil
2
tbsp
Fresh Lemon Juice
1
tsp
Coarse Sea Salt
1
tsp
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1
lb
Root Vegetables (Carrots, Parsnips, Onions)
1
cup
Vegetable Broth or Water
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- High-sided roasting pan
- Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Instructions
1
✓
Remove lamb from fridge 1 hour before roasting. Cut small slits into the meat and insert garlic slices and rosemary tufts.
Tip: Studding the meat flavors it from the inside. Room temperature meat roasts more evenly.
2
✓
Mix oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and remaining crushed garlic. Massage over the entire leg.
Tip: Lemon acid helps break down surface fibers.
3
✓
Chop vegetables coarsely and spread in the pan. Add liquid. Place lamb on top.
Tip: The vegetable bed elevates the meat for even heat and flavors the gravy.
4
✓
Roast at 325°F (160°C) for 1.5-2 hours depending on size. Baste with juices halfway through.
Tip: Lower temperature keeps proteins tender.
5
✓
Tent with foil and rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Tip: Never carve immediately! Resting lets internal pressure equalize and juices settle.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 3-3 1/2 lbs Leg of Lamb (bone-in or boneless)
- 5 cloves Garlic
- 3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
- 3 sprigs Fresh Thyme
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp Coarse Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1 lb Root Vegetables (Carrots, Parsnips, Onions)
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth or Water