Grilled Marinated Lamb

When it comes to summer grilling, nothing quite compares to the juicy, tender bites of grilled marinated lamb. This recipe is a celebration of flavor, featuring a harmonious blend of rosemary, garlic, and citrus that elevates the natural richness of the lamb. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to impress at dinner, this grilled marinated lamb will not disappoint. So grab your grill and get ready to dive into a culinary adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about grilling meat outdoors, especially when it’s marinated to perfection. The aroma that wafts through the air as the lamb cooks is simply irresistible. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; the marinated lamb is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with sides like a refreshing Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad or creamy garlic butter steak pasta. The tangy lemon and fragrant rosemary infuse the lamb with an unforgettable flavor that will have your guests raving.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this mouthwatering grilled marinated lamb, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil – This adds richness and helps to tenderize the meat.
• 1/2 lemon, zested – The zest enhances the lemon flavor without the acidity.
• 1 lemon, juiced – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the marinade.
• 4 cloves minced garlic – Garlic adds an aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with lamb.
• 2 tablespoons minced rosemary – Fresh rosemary provides a fragrant, earthy note.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for seasoning the lamb and enhancing flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice without overpowering.
• 5 pound boneless leg of lamb – The star of the show, providing tender, juicy bites.

Recommended Tools

Before you get started, gather the following tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Grill – A charcoal or gas grill works perfectly for this recipe.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the marinade ingredients.
• Whisk – For thoroughly mixing the marinade.
• Meat thermometer – Ensures your lamb is cooked to the perfect doneness.
• Plastic wrap or resealable bag – For marinating the lamb.

Grilled Marinated Lamb: How It’s Done

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable grilled marinated lamb.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, minced rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined. This marinade is the heart of the dish, so make sure everything is blended nicely.

Step 2: Marinate the Lamb

Place the boneless leg of lamb in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the lamb, locking in all those delicious juices.

Step 4: Grill the Lamb

Remove the lamb from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the lamb on the grill. Grill for about 15-20 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare). Use a meat thermometer to check.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Once the lamb is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy. After resting, slice the lamb against the grain and serve.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

To make this grilled marinated lamb even healthier, consider these tweaks:

• Use leaner cuts of lamb, such as lamb loin or shoulder, to reduce fat content.
• Replace some of the olive oil with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and added creaminess.
• Add more fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor without additional calories.

Insider Tips

• For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the marinade.
• Make sure your grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
• Let the lamb come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
• Consider pairing your grilled lamb with sides like Garlic Butter Steak Pasta or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Store: Place any leftover grilled lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap slices of lamb tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave in short bursts until heated through.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different cut of lamb for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the boneless leg of lamb is ideal, you can also use lamb chops, shoulder, or even rack of lamb. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What should I serve with grilled marinated lamb?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even pan-seared steak for a feast.

How can I tell when the lamb is done cooking?

The best way to check doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 135°F; medium is about 145°F.

Can I marinate the lamb for too long?

While marinating overnight is great for flavor, marinating for more than 24 hours can start to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture.

Don’t Miss These

• Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad – A refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of lamb.
• Garlic Butter Steak Pasta – A deliciously creamy pasta dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
• Pan Seared Steak – If you love lamb, you’ll adore this steak recipe too!

Next Steps

Now that you have this delightful recipe for grilled marinated lamb at your fingertips, it’s time to fire up your grill and get cooking! Enjoy the process of marinating, grilling, and serving this incredible dish to your friends and family. With each bite, you’ll be reminded of the love and care that went into creating it. Happy grilling!