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Lamb Leg Roast Recipe Easy Rosemary Garlic for Perfect Holiday Dinner

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This lamb leg roast is infused with a fragrant rosemary garlic paste, roasted to perfection for a juicy, flavorful centerpiece ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Simple ingredients and a foolproof method make it both impressive and approachable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in lamb leg roast (5–6 lbs)
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 8–10 large garlic cloves, peeled and minced
  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup red wine (or beef broth)
  • 2 carrots, cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • Optional: 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  • Optional: 1–2 teaspoons thyme, fresh or dried
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Pat the lamb leg dry with paper towels. Score the fat in a crisscross pattern about 1/2 inch deep.
  2. Combine rosemary, garlic, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon zest in a small bowl to make a paste.
  3. Rub the rosemary garlic paste all over the lamb, working it into the scored cuts and slashes.
  4. Place carrots, onion, and potatoes (if using) in the bottom of a large roasting pan. Set the lamb leg on top, fat side up. Pour red wine or broth into the pan around the veggies.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F. Roast lamb for 20 minutes to brown the crust.
  6. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F and continue roasting for 1–1.25 hours, or until a meat thermometer reads 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium.
  7. If crust browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  8. Remove lamb from oven and transfer to a cutting board. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
  9. While lamb rests, skim excess fat from pan juices. Simmer juices with a splash more wine or broth to reduce slightly. Strain and serve as jus.
  10. Slice lamb against the grain. Arrange on a platter with roasted veggies and drizzle with jus.

Notes

Bring lamb to room temperature before roasting for even cooking. Score deeply for maximum flavor penetration. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Resting the meat is crucial for juicy results. For dairy-free, skip the butter glaze. Leftovers are great in sandwiches or salads.

Nutrition

Keywords: lamb leg roast, rosemary garlic lamb, holiday dinner, easy lamb roast, roast lamb recipe, gluten-free, main course, Easter, Christmas

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/lamb-leg-roast-recipe-easy-rosemary-garlic-for-perfect-holiday-dinner/