How to make Greek-Style Leg of Lamb

Have you ever wondered what makes Greek-Style Leg of Lamb so incredibly flavorful and tender? Is it the garlic tucked into every crevice, the herbs dancing on the surface, or that juicy roast that makes your kitchen smell like a holiday in the Mediterranean? Let’s uncover the secrets behind this timeless classic and bring a taste of Greece into your home!

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek-Style Leg of Lamb is not just a meal—it’s a celebration. This dish combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. Perfect for family dinners, Easter gatherings, or any special occasion, it’s surprisingly easy to make and rewards you with mouthwatering results.

• Time: 2.5 hours total (including resting)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Serves: 6 to 8 people

What Makes This Greek-Style Recipe So Special?

Greek cuisine is known for using fresh, aromatic herbs, olive oil, and citrus to bring out natural flavors. This lamb is marinated in a blend of oregano, rosemary, lemon juice, and garlic, then slow-roasted to juicy perfection. The bone-in leg adds flavor and keeps the meat moist while roasting.

Greek-Style Leg of Lamb @Kitchenest

For another comforting main dish, check out this Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe 🥖🥴 on Kitchen Nest. And you may also enjoy these delicious Japanese Deviled Eggs as a unique appetizer to complement your meal Greek-Style Leg of Lamb.

Essential Ingredients & Why They Matter

Here’s what you need to create the perfect Mediterranean-style roasted lamb:

• Leg of lamb (4-5 lbs, bone-in): The star of the show. Bone-in meat adds depth and moisture.
• Garlic (4 cloves, slivered): Infuses every bite with savory flavor.
• Olive oil (1/4 cup): Helps the herbs stick and gives the lamb a golden crust.
• Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
• Dried oregano (2 tbsp): A classic Greek herb that gives the dish its signature flavor.
• Fresh rosemary (1 tbsp, chopped): Earthy and fragrant, a perfect complement to lamb.
• Salt (1 tsp) & Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Enhances and balances the flavors.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Keeps the lamb moist during roasting.
• Lemon wedges: For garnish and added zest when serving.

Ingredients Greek-Style Leg of Lamb

Substitutions & Variations:

• Use fresh oregano if available (double the amount).
• Swap rosemary with thyme for a different herb profile.
• Lamb shoulder can be used for a more economical cut.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking.

2. Prepare the Lamb

Use a sharp knife to make small slits all over the lamb. Insert a garlic sliver into each slit. This infuses the meat from the inside out.

3. Season It

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, ensuring every inch is coated.

4. Roast the Lamb

Place the lamb in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom to keep the lamb moist. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours. Baste every 30 minutes with the pan juices.

Cooking Tip: Use a meat thermometer. The lamb is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.

5. Rest Before Serving

Once roasted, remove the lamb and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Greek-Style Leg of Lamb @Kitchennest

How to Serve & Present It

• Slice the meat against the grain into thin pieces.
• Arrange on a platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges.
• Serve alongside roasted potatoes, tzatziki sauce, or a Greek salad.

Presentation Tip: Drizzle the pan juices over the lamb just before serving for extra moisture and flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Slice and wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Make-Ahead Idea: You can marinate the lamb the night before and store it covered in the fridge. This makes prep easy the next day and enhances the flavor.

Creative Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Wraps: Use leftover lamb in pita wraps with veggies and tzatziki.
• Lamb & Rice Bowls: Serve slices over a bed of lemon rice with feta and olives.
• Spiced Up: Add paprika or cumin to the rub for a different flavor.
• Grilled Version: In summer, cook the lamb on a grill over indirect heat for a smoky flavor.

Add More Flavor to Your Table

If you’re new to cooking lamb, this Greek-Style Leg of Lamb is a wonderful place to start. The savory aroma and zesty marinade create an unforgettable dish that will become a family favorite. From holiday meals to cozy Sunday dinners, this recipe Greek-Style Leg of Lambbrings a hearty Mediterranean flair to your table. Whether you serve it with classic sides or turn it into leftover magic, you’ll find that Greek-Style Leg of Lamb is both versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Conclusion

Cooking Greek-Style Leg of Lamb may sound fancy, but it’s actually a fun and fulfilling process. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just treating yourself to something special, this dish brings people together with every bite. Now that you know the secrets to making flavorful Mediterranean lamb at home, it’s time to try it yourself. Opa!

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless leg of lamb?
A: Yes! It cooks slightly faster and is easier to slice, but bone-in offers more flavor.

Q: What can I serve with this lamb dish?
A: Greek salad, roasted lemon potatoes, tzatziki, or grilled vegetables are perfect sides.

Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: Yes! It uses wholesome ingredients and healthy fats like olive oil. Just watch portion sizes.

Q: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A: You can! Cook on low for 6-8 hours, though the texture will be less crisp.

Q: What if I don’t have chicken broth?
A: Water with a bit of bouillon or even white wine works too.

Enjoy bringing a little Greek sunshine into your kitchen!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or simply want to surprise your loved ones with something extraordinary, Greek-Style Leg of Lamb makes the perfect centerpiece. Its tender, juicy texture paired with vibrant herbs and citrusy brightness creates a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a hearty yet wholesome choice for guests with various dietary needs.

Pair It, Plate It, Love It

One of the best things about Greek-Style Leg of Lamb is how well it pairs with different side dishes. From fluffy lemon rice and creamy tzatziki to grilled vegetables and fresh pita, the options are endless. You can even turn leftovers into delicious wraps, salads, or grain bowls the next day. It’s a recipe that keeps on giving—just another reason to make it part of your meal rotation.