Succulent Herb-Crusted Lamb (Printable)
Tender lamb infused with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, roasted to rich, succulent perfection for special occasions.
# Ingredient List:
→ Lamb
01 - 1 bone-in leg of lamb, trimmed (4.5 lb)
→ Marinade & Seasonings
02 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
04 - 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
05 - 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped or 1 tsp dried
06 - Zest of 1 lemon
07 - 2 tsp kosher salt
08 - 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 - 3 tbsp olive oil
→ Vegetables (Roasting Bed)
10 - 2 medium onions, quartered
11 - 2 large carrots, cut into chunks
12 - 2 celery stalks, cut into pieces
13 - 1 head garlic, halved horizontally
→ Liquids
14 - 1 cup dry white wine
15 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken or lamb stock
# Steps:
01 - Set oven to 425°F to begin roasting process.
02 - In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to create a paste.
03 - Pat lamb dry and evenly rub herb paste over entire surface, pressing firmly into meat.
04 - Place onions, carrots, celery, and halved garlic in a large roasting pan to form a vegetable bed. Position lamb on top, fat side facing up.
05 - Pour white wine and stock into the pan around the lamb without pouring directly onto the meat.
06 - Roast at 425°F for 20 minutes to develop a crust.
07 - Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Roast for an additional 60 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part reaches 135°F for medium-rare doneness.
08 - Remove lamb from oven, transfer to platter, and cover loosely with foil. Allow to rest for 15 to 20 minutes before carving to retain juices.
09 - Skim excess fat from pan juices, strain the liquid, and serve alongside lamb as a flavorful sauce.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This lamb gets that perfect herb-crusted finish that feels like a secret handshake among food lovers
- The blend of fresh herbs and lemon zest adds brightness that makes it a standout on any table
02 -
- Marinating the lamb up to 24 hours ahead dramatically intensifies the flavor so don’t skip it if you have time
- Keeping the fat side up while roasting locks in moisture and creates that irresistible crispy top
03 -
- If you marinate overnight, bring lamb to room temperature before roasting so it cooks evenly
- The lemon zest not only brightens but cuts through the richness—don’t skip it