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Perfect Garlic Rosemary Leg of Lamb Recipe for Holidays

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

Description

A tender, aromatic leg of lamb infused with garlic and rosemary, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy Sunday dinners. This foolproof recipe delivers rich flavor and a golden crust every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in leg of lamb (about 5–6 lbs), trimmed of excess fat
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced thin
  • 3–4 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the leg of lamb dry with paper towels.
  3. Using a small paring knife, make 1-inch deep incisions all over the lamb—about 20 total—and insert a slice of garlic into each slit.
  4. In a small bowl, mix chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture over the entire lamb.
  5. Place the lamb in a roasting pan, fat side up, and scatter rosemary sprigs around.
  6. Roast for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for 1½ to 2 hours.
  7. Check internal temperature: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  8. Halfway through cooking, spoon pan juices over the lamb; add a splash of broth if needed.
  9. Transfer lamb to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
  10. Make a pan sauce by simmering wine and broth in the roasting pan for 5 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
  11. Slice lamb thinly against the grain, drizzle with pan sauce, and serve.

Notes

Let the lamb rest before carving to retain juices. Fresh rosemary gives the best flavor. You can prep and season the lamb a day ahead and refrigerate. If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 4 oz (115 g) p
  • Calories: 280
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 20
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 1
  • Protein: 25

Keywords: garlic rosemary lamb, holiday roast, Easter dinner, Christmas lamb, roasted leg of lamb, easy lamb recipe

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Find it online: https://gurusrecipes.com/perfect-garlic-rosemary-leg-of-lamb-recipe-for-holidays/