The classic flavors of a grilled butterflied leg of lamb never go out of style. With its tender texture and rich flavor profile, this show-stopping dish is perfect for special occasions or a casual weekend gathering with friends. And the best part? The possibilities are endless! From Mediterranean-inspired marinades to spicy harissa-based sauces, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to inspire your next grilling adventure.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring butterflied leg of lamb dishes that showcase the bold flavors and aromas of international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So fire up your grill, sharpen your knives, and get ready to impress with these succulent butterflied leg of lamb recipes!
Grilled Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and tender grilled leg of lamb, infused with the pungency of garlic and the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, and chopped rosemary.
3. Place the butterflied leg of lamb on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Spread the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the lamb, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the lamb for 15 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Lemon and Herbs
This recipe showcases the rich flavors of the Mediterranean region, where tender lamb is infused with bright citrus and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1 1/2-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the lamb on a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Brush the lemon-herb mixture all over the meat, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes for a 2-pound leg of lamb.
Spicy Harissa-Marinated Butterflied Leg of Lamb
Spicy Harissa-Marinated Butterflied Leg of Lamb Recipe
Elevate your lamb dishes with this flavorful marinade that combines the warm spices of harissa with the richness of butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) boneless leg of lamb, butterflied
– 1/4 cup harissa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add the butterflied leg of lamb to the marinade, making sure it’s coated evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Remove the lamb from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1-1.5 pound leg of lamb.
Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Mint Pesto and Feta
This classic Greek-inspired dish is a perfect showcase for the tender and flavorful butterflied leg of lamb. The mint pesto adds a refreshing twist, while crumbled feta cheese provides a salty and tangy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 kg) butterflied leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 250g crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a food processor, combine mint leaves, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Process until smooth.
3. Place the butterflied leg of lamb on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spread the mint pesto evenly over the lamb, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll the lamb tightly and tie with kitchen twine at 2-inch intervals.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until cooked to your liking.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Cedar Plank
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked lamb with the subtle sweetness of cedar wood, creating a truly unique and delicious dish. Perfect for special occasions or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb on the cedar plank, leaving a 1-inch border around the meat.
5. Smoke the lamb for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Argentinian-Style Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Chimichurri
This recipe brings the bold flavors and effortless elegance of Argentine cuisine to your table. Tender, butterflied leg of lamb is paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the leg of lamb on a large cutting board and make shallow cuts in both sides, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Roast the lamb for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Meanwhile, combine chimichurri sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
7. Serve the roasted lamb with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Butterflied Leg of Lamb
Elevate your springtime gatherings with this sweet and tangy glazed leg of lamb, perfect for special occasions or everyday celebrations. This recipe’s simplicity belies its impressive presentation and rich flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Season the lamb with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the honey-mustard glaze evenly over both sides of the lamb.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the lamb and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1-2 pound leg of lamb, depending on your desired level of doneness.
Butterflied Leg of Lamb Stuffed with Spinach and Pine Nuts
Elevate your dinner table with this impressive yet easy-to-make leg of lamb recipe, stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach, pine nuts, and aromatic herbs. This show-stopping main course is perfect for special occasions or everyday dining.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, pine nuts, garlic, and herbs.
3. Butterfly the leg of lamb by cutting along both sides of the bone, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the lamb with the spinach mixture, spreading it evenly across the meat.
5. Season the outside of the lamb with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
6. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Couscous
Moroccan-Spiced Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Couscous: Experience the vibrant flavors of North Africa in this show-stopping dish, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
7. Serve the roasted lamb with steaming hot couscous and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1.5-2 pound leg of lamb.
Herb-Crusted Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your dinner party with this impressive and flavorful leg of lamb recipe, perfect for special occasions. The butterflying technique allows the meat to cook evenly and retain its juiciness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place the lamb on a large cutting board and butterfly it by cutting along both sides of the bone, from one end to the other.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. While the lamb is cooking, reduce the red wine and beef broth on stovetop over medium heat until thickened slightly.
8. Serve the lamb with the reduced sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Greek-Style Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Tzatziki
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This butterflied leg of lamb is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1 1/2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb on a large piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Brush both sides with the marinade.
4. Grill the lamb for 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine cucumber, yogurt, and lemon juice in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Blackened Butterflied Leg of Lamb
Cajun Blackened Butterflied Leg of Lamb: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Cut
This recipe brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to a tender and juicy leg of lamb. The butterflying technique ensures even cooking, while the blackening spice blend adds a rich, smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1 1/2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon blackening spice blend
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lamb under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Butterfly the leg of lamb by cutting it lengthwise from one end to the other.
4. In a small bowl, mix together blackening spice blend, Cajun seasoning, and garlic.
5. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Sear the lamb for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
9. Remove from the oven and let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Balsamic Fig Glaze
This recipe is a show-stopping centerpiece for any special occasion, featuring tender and flavorful lamb paired with a sweet and tangy balsamic fig glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, breast side up. Brush the lamb with the olive oil mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Roast the lamb for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
5. Meanwhile, combine honey, balsamic vinegar, and fig jam in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
6. Brush the lamb with the balsamic fig glaze during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Indian Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Yogurt Marinade
Experience the rich flavors of India with this easy-to-make recipe for butterflied leg of lamb, marinated in a creamy yogurt mixture. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1 1/2 to 2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the leg of lamb on a large plate or tray. Brush both sides with the yogurt marinade, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (preferably).
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Cook the lamb for 15-20 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Roasted Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Root Vegetables
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful leg of lamb paired with a medley of roasted root vegetables. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place the leg of lamb on a large rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Brush the lamb with the garlic-thyme mixture, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Arrange the chopped vegetables around the lamb in a single layer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-1/2 hours, or until the lamb reaches desired level of doneness (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Grilled Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Charred Scallion Salsa
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this show-stopping Grilled Butterflied Leg of Lamb, served with a tangy Charred Scallion Salsa. Perfect for a summer gathering or special occasion.
Grilled Butterflied Leg of Lamb
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 15-20 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
Charred Scallion Salsa
Ingredients:
– 1 large scallion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the scallion slices for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, mix together grilled scallions, olive oil, and lime juice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes total
Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Pistachio and Herb Crust
Transform your Sunday roast into a show-stopping centerpiece with this butterflied leg of lamb recipe, featuring a fragrant pistachio and herb crust. Perfect for special occasions or a memorable family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup pistachio meal or finely ground pistachios
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Butterfly the leg of lamb by cutting it along the natural seam.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the lamb, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle pistachio meal or chopped pistachios over the herbs.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the lamb and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
8. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1.5-pound leg of lamb.
Coconut Curry Butterflied Leg of Lamb
This recipe combines the tenderloin’s natural juiciness with the rich flavors of coconut and curry, resulting in a mouthwatering dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) butterflied leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together coconut, curry powder, and salt.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until caramelized (about 10 minutes).
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the lamb for 20-25 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and let rest before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to grill like a pro! This collection of 18 succulent butterflied leg of lamb recipes is perfect for enthusiasts. From classic flavors like garlic and rosemary, to bold and adventurous options like harissa-marinated or Indian-inspired yogurt marinade, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Mediterranean-style with lemon and herbs, or go big with Argentinian-Style chimichurri. For a sweet touch, opt for honey mustard glaze or balsamic fig glaze. Whichever recipe you choose, your grilled butterflied leg of lamb is sure to impress!
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