Picture this: a beautifully roasted leg of lamb, tender and flavorful, served with a refreshing lemon mint sauce that elevates every bite to a whole new level. This recipe for Leg of Lamb with Lemon Mint Sauce is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners when you want to impress your guests with a dish that’s both elegant and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 leg of lamb (about 5-6 pounds)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Mint Sauce:
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Zest and juice of 2 lemons
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leg of lamb in a roasting pan and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the lamb registers 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. Remember to baste the lamb occasionally with the pan drippings to keep it moist and flavorful.
4. While the lamb is roasting, prepare the lemon mint sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the chopped mint leaves, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste and set the sauce aside for the flavors to meld.
5. Once the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender lamb when sliced.
6. To serve, carve the leg of lamb into thin slices and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle the lemon mint sauce over the lamb slices or serve it on the side for guests to help themselves.
This Leg of Lamb with Lemon Mint Sauce recipe is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering. The combination of tender roasted lamb with the bright, zesty flavors of the lemon mint sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. So, the next time you want to impress your guests or simply treat your family to a special meal, try this recipe and savor the delicious results. Enjoy!
