There’s something truly special about a beautifully roasted leg of lamb—the crispy, golden crust, the juicy, tender meat, and that irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. Now, pair it with a fresh, tangy mint sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular!
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This is the kind of recipe that makes any meal feel like a celebration. Whether you’re gathering with family for a holiday feast, hosting a Sunday dinner, or simply treating yourself to a hearty, flavorful meal, this roast leg of lamb will have everyone coming back for seconds. And don’t worry—it’s easier to make than you might think!
Why You’ll Love Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The rich, savory flavors of the lamb contrast beautifully with the bright, zesty mint sauce, making every bite unforgettable. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Show-Stopping Main Course
A golden, herb-crusted leg of lamb always makes an impression. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion.
Incredible Flavor Pairing
The combination of roasted lamb with fresh mint sauce is a match made in heaven—savory, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Easy Yet Impressive
It might look gourmet, but this recipe is simple to follow. Just a few key ingredients and techniques will have you roasting like a pro.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish always fits the bill.
Great for Leftovers
Leftover lamb is fantastic in sandwiches, wraps, or salads, making it just as exciting the next day!
Ingredients in Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
This recipe is all about simple ingredients that deliver bold flavors:
Leg of Lamb: The star of the dish! Bone-in or boneless, this cut becomes tender and juicy when roasted.
Garlic: Infuses the lamb with rich, savory depth. Fresh cloves are best!
Fresh Rosemary & Thyme: These aromatic herbs enhance the meat’s natural flavors beautifully.
Olive Oil: Helps create that irresistible, crispy crust while keeping the lamb moist.
Salt & Black Pepper: The basics, but essential for bringing out the best in the meat.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the lamb.
Dijon Mustard: Helps create a flavorful crust and enhances the overall taste.
Mint Sauce: A fresh, tangy blend of mint, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of garlic—perfect for cutting through the richness of the meat.
Instructions
Prepare the Lamb
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the leg of lamb dry with paper towels, then score the fat in a crisscross pattern to help the flavors penetrate.
Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat it well.
Roast the Lamb
Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a pan. Roast uncovered, basting occasionally with its juices, until it reaches your desired doneness (see temperature guide below).
Make the Mint Sauce
While the lamb roasts, blend fresh mint, vinegar, sugar, a pinch of salt, and garlic. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Rest Before Slicing
Once done, remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Slice and Serve
Carve into thick slices, drizzle with mint sauce, and serve immediately. Enjoy the perfect balance of rich, roasted meat and refreshing mint!
How to Serve Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
Make your meal even more special by pairing the lamb with these sides:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes complement the rich lamb beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add color and flavor.
Crispy Roast Potatoes: Golden and crunchy, they’re a classic pairing with lamb.
Steamed Green Beans: A light, fresh contrast to the hearty meat.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up those delicious pan juices!
Additional Tips
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, aim for these internal temperatures:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-Done: 155°F+ (68°C+)
Let It Rest: Don’t skip resting time! It locks in moisture for juicy, tender slices.
Customize the Crust: Add crushed red pepper for heat or a honey glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Make the Mint Sauce in Advance: It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use boneless lamb instead of bone-in?
A1: Yes! A boneless leg of lamb works just as well and may cook a little faster.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can marinate the lamb overnight and make the mint sauce a day in advance.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover lamb in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze cooked lamb?
A4: Yes! Slice it, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
Q5: What’s the best wine pairing?
A5: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Malbec pairs beautifully.
Q6: How do I get a crispy crust?
A6: Start roasting at a high temperature (450°F/230°C) for the first 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C).
Q7: What if I don’t like mint sauce?
A7: Try a garlic-yogurt sauce or a red wine reduction for an alternative topping.
Q8: Can I roast the lamb with vegetables in the same pan?
A8: Yes! Toss potatoes and carrots with olive oil and herbs, then roast alongside the lamb.
Q9: Do I need to baste the lamb?
A9: It’s optional, but basting with pan juices every 30 minutes enhances flavor and moisture.
Q10: Can I cook this on the grill instead of the oven?
A10: Yes! Use indirect heat and rotate occasionally for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce is a dish that never fails to impress. It’s flavorful, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just indulging in a comforting meal, trust me this one’s a keeper. Give it a try, and let the compliments roll in!
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Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Roast Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce is a classic British dish, featuring tender, juicy lamb infused with rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest. The homemade mint sauce adds a fresh, tangy contrast, making this a perfect centerpiece for your next dinner. Ideal for healthy dinner recipes, high-protein meals, and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients
For the Lamb:
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
- 1/2 small bunch fresh rosemary, half the leaves chopped
- 1 lemon, zest only
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2kg (4.5 lbs) quality leg of lamb
- Salt, to taste
For the Mint Sauce:
- 20g (1/2 cup) fresh mint leaves
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp hot water
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 4 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lamb:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mortar and pestle, combine chopped rosemary, crushed garlic, coarse salt, lemon zest, and olive oil. Mash into a paste.
- Rub the mixture all over the leg of lamb.
-
Roast the Lamb:
- Place the lamb in a roasting pan and cook for 1 hour 15 minutes for medium-rare or 1 hour 30 minutes for well-done.
-
Make the Mint Sauce:
- Blend mint leaves, honey, salt, hot water, white wine vinegar, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
-
Rest and Serve:
- Once the lamb is done, remove it from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with the mint sauce on the side.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, marinate the lamb with the seasoning mix overnight.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 402
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 115mg