Juicy and Flavorful Roast Leg of Lamb with a Citrus Twist

5 stars
4.64 (16)
Juicy and Flavorful Roast Leg of Lamb with a Citrus Twist
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
180 mins
Total Time:
200mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on October 07, 2023

This roast leg of lamb recipe combines the succulent flavors of tender lamb with the zesty tang of orange juice and the richness of white wine. The result is a juicy and flavorful roast that is sure to impress your dinner guests. With a total preparation time of just under 3 hours, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or a Sunday family dinner. The lamb is marinated in a mixture of orange juice, white wine, garlic, and herbs, then roasted to perfection, resulting in a moist and tender meat with a beautiful caramelized crust. Serve it with roasted potatoes and a side of seasonal vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 leg of lamb (about 5 pounds)
  • 2 cups orange juice
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Roasted potatoes, for serving
  • Seasonal vegetables, for serving

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine orange juice, white wine, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
  2. Place the leg of lamb in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the lamb is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Remove the lamb from the marinade and place it on a rack in a roasting pan. Reserve the marinade for basting.
  5. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat registers an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, or 170°F (77°C) for well done.
  6. While the lamb is roasting, baste it every 30 minutes with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.
  7. Once the lamb reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy roast.
  8. Carve the lamb into thin slices and serve with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
  9. Enjoy the succulent and flavorful roast leg of lamb with your family and friends!

Interesting Facts

  • Lamb is a popular choice for festive occasions, such as Easter and Christmas.
  • Orange juice adds a refreshing citrus flavor to the lamb and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Marinating the lamb overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful roast.
  • Roasted potatoes make a delicious accompaniment to the lamb, soaking up the flavorful juices.
  • Leftover lamb can be used in sandwiches or salads for a tasty lunch the next day.