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Perfect Herb-Crusted Roasted Leg of Lamb

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A simple yet impressive herb-crusted roasted leg of lamb recipe that locks in moisture and delivers tender, flavorful meat with a crispy herb crust. Perfect for special occasions or a delicious weekend meal.

Ingredients

  • Leg of lamb (about 4 to 5 pounds / 1.8 to 2.3 kg) – bone-in or boneless
  • Fresh rosemary, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh thyme, finely chopped (1 tablespoon)
  • Garlic cloves, minced (4 large cloves)
  • Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
  • Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • Salt (1 ½ teaspoons) – kosher salt preferred
  • Freshly ground black pepper (1 teaspoon)
  • Dijon mustard (optional, 1 tablespoon)
  • Red wine or beef broth (optional, for pan sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the leg of lamb dry with paper towels. Score the fat in a crisscross pattern about ½ inch deep.
  3. In a bowl, combine chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
  4. If using Dijon mustard, spread it evenly over the lamb, then press the herb mixture on top, covering all sides.
  5. Place the lamb on a roasting rack set inside your roasting pan.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C) to create a sear and crust.
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for about 15 minutes per pound (about 40 minutes per kg) for medium-rare (about 1 hour 15 minutes for 5 pounds).
  8. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  9. Remove from oven and tent with foil to rest for at least 15 minutes.
  10. Optional: Make a pan sauce by deglazing the roasting pan with red wine or beef broth over medium heat, scraping up browned bits.

Notes

Let the lamb sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes before roasting for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Rest the meat covered with foil for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Optional pan sauce adds richness. You can prepare the herb crust the night before and refrigerate the lamb, bringing it back to room temperature before roasting.

Nutrition

Keywords: leg of lamb, roasted lamb, herb crust, rosemary, thyme, garlic, easy roast, holiday dinner, special occasion

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/perfect-herb-crusted-roasted-leg-of-lamb-recipe-easy-and-delicious-roast-ideas/