Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic is a timeless dish that brings together rich, tender lamb with the bold, aromatic flavors of fresh rosemary and garlic. This dish is a perfect centerpiece for special occasions like Easter, family gatherings, or any celebration that calls for a hearty and flavorful main course. The combination of the succulent lamb and fragrant herbs creates an unforgettable meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
The key to a perfect roast lamb is in the seasoning. Fresh rosemary, with its earthy, pine-like flavor, pairs wonderfully with garlic, which adds a savory depth. The lamb is rubbed with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, and a touch of salt and pepper, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the aromatic blend. The mixture infuses the lamb with flavor as it roasts, creating a crisp, flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
The lamb should be roasted slowly at a moderate temperature, allowing the meat to cook evenly and develop a rich flavor. The slow roasting process allows the fat to render, keeping the lamb moist while enhancing its natural flavor. The result is a beautifully golden-brown exterior with a tender, juicy interior. For the perfect roast, the meat should be cooked to your desired level of doneness, whether it’s medium-rare, medium, or well-done.
To complement the roast lamb, you can serve it with a variety of side dishes. Classic accompaniments like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad all pair beautifully with lamb. A drizzle of pan juices or a flavorful gravy made from the lamb drippings can enhance the richness of the meat, making each bite even more indulgent.
Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic is a dish that never fails to impress, combining simple ingredients with exceptional flavor. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a savory and satisfying meal that will be remembered long after the table is cleared.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg lamb leg bone-in
- 4 cloves garlic sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Make small incisions all over the lamb leg and insert slices of garlic into them.
- Rub the lamb with olive oil and season generously with rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 90 minutes or until the lamb is cooked to your liking.
- Remove from the oven and let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Nutrition
This recipe was a game changer! The lamb came out so juicy and full of flavor. Perfect for Easter dinner!
Why not use thyme instead of rosemary? I think I’d like that flavor more. 🤷♂️
Thyme would work too! But rosemary gives it a nice flavor. Just try it both ways maybe! 😊
I prefer my lamb with mint sauce! But the garlic was strong in this, loved it tho. 😋
Seriously, who eats lamb? It’s expensive and tastes weird. Just stick to chicken.
I used dried rosemary instead of fresh, it was not the same. Gotta get fresh next time.
Lamb + Garlic = Love ❤️
Lamb is not my thing, I think it tastes like wild animal. But my friends say it was delish.
I don’t know if I did something wrong, but my lamb was super tough. Disappointed.
Maybe you cooked it too long? Lamb should be tender if done right. Try not to overcook it next time!
This recipe is amazing! The lamb turned out so tender and juicy, my family loved it. ❤️
I followed the instructions but it was kinda dry. I might have overcooked it. 😕
So easy to make and wow the flavors! Rosemary and garlic… perfection. Will definitely make again!
I tried this recipe last night and it turned out amazing too! I added some lemon zest and it was delicious. Highly recommend it!
Looks good but lamb is too fatty for my taste. Can’t believe people eat that much fat. What’s the point?
Lamb is good but I prefer grilled chicken. To each their own, I guess.
Perfect for Sunday dinner. It was epic!! 🌟
Take it from me, this roast is the best thing I ever made. So juicy!
Juicy? You sure it’s not too dry? I’ve had some bad roast lamb before, so I’m skeptical.
I totally agree! Lamb is my favorite meat and this recipe sounds amazing. Can’t wait to try it out!
Very easy! I made it for my in-laws and they were impressed. Also, I added some veggies in the pan. Great way to cook! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sounds delicious! I’m glad your in-laws enjoyed it. Adding veggies is a smart twist. I’ll definitely try that next time! 🍖
This was okay, but it took way longer than 90 mins in my oven. Could be my oven tho.
Is it really necessary to use fresh rosemary? I used dried and it was still good. Just sayin’.
Lamb is gross. Why would you eat a baby sheep? No thanks! 1 star for the effort.
Why use fresh rosemary? Dried tastes just fine! Save some $$ lol
But fresh herbs just taste better! Dry just doesn´t have that same kick. You gotta try it once!
Fresh rosemary really enhances the flavor. Even though dried is okay, it can’t beat the fresh stuff! Trust me on this one.
This roast lamb was amazing! So juicy and flavorful. My whole family loved it! Definitely a 5-star recipe!
This is the only way I cook lamb now, it’s a hit at family gatherings!
Absolutely loved this recipe! The garlic and rosemary combo was just divine.
I followed the recipe exactly but my lamb turned out tough and dry. Must’ve been overcooked 😞. 2 stars.
Sorry to hear that! Maybe try checking the temperature with a meat thermometer next time? It helps keep it juicy!
Tough lamb? Sounds like you overcooked it for sure! 90 minutes is a long time. I usually do mine for 70 max if it’s not too big.
Easy to follow! My family kept asking for more. Thank you!
Wasn’t really a fan, don’t think I’ll make it again. Too much garlic for me.