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Flavorful Greek Roast Leg of Lamb with Lemon Garlic Oregano

Greek roast leg of lamb - featured image

A tender and juicy Greek roast leg of lamb infused with lemon, garlic, and fresh oregano, perfect for easy family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in leg of lamb (about 56 pounds / 2.32.7 kg)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (about 60 ml)
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh oregano sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the leg of lamb dry with paper towels. Score the fat in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep and trim any thick, hard fat if desired.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped oregano, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, salt, pepper, and dried thyme if using. Mix well to form a fragrant paste.
  3. Rub the marinade all over the lamb, including into the scored cuts. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
  4. Remove the lamb from the refrigerator 30 minutes before roasting to bring it to room temperature.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the lower third.
  6. Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and roast uncovered for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, basting with pan juices every 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  7. Remove the lamb from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 15-20 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Carve the lamb against the grain and serve with fresh lemon wedges and oregano sprigs.

Notes

If lamb browns too quickly, lower oven temperature and tent with foil. Add water or stock to pan if juices dry up. Use fresh oregano for best flavor but dried oregano can substitute. Resting the meat is essential for juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

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