Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg Recipe

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Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg is one of those meals that feels special but is still easy enough for real life. When I make this at home, the kitchen fills with the warm smell of garlic, lemon, and herbs, and everyone wanders in asking when dinner will be ready. This recipe is simple, bold, and forgiving, which is exactly what busy cooks need. You do not need fancy skills, just good ingredients and a little time. Even on a full day, this lamb dish comes together with confidence.

Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg Recipe 1

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is full of classic Greek flavor that feels bright and comforting at the same time. The lamb cooks evenly because it is butterflied, so there is no stress about dry spots. It works for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Best of all, it fits right into easy lamb recipes that feel impressive without being hard.

Ingredients You Will Need

  • Butterflied leg of lamb, this cut cooks faster and soaks up flavor well.
  • Fresh garlic cloves, they add deep and savory flavor.
  • Lemon juice and zest, this keeps the lamb bright and fresh.
  • Olive oil, helps carry the herbs and keeps the meat juicy.
  • Dried oregano and fresh rosemary, classic Greek lamb recipes always use these.
  • Salt and black pepper, simple seasoning that lets the lamb shine.

Step by Step Instructions

  1. Pat the lamb dry and place it flat on a cutting board. This helps the seasoning stick.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb. Take a minute to press it in.
  4. Let the lamb rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes if you can.
  5. Preheat your grill or oven to medium high heat.
  6. Cook the lamb for about 10 to 12 minutes per side until it reaches your preferred doneness.
  7. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Helpful Tips and Variations

Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg Recipe 2

  • If you love easy lamb recipes, you can marinate this overnight for even more flavor.
  • This also works well for simple lamb meals when paired with salad or roasted potatoes.
  • Add a pinch of paprika or cumin for a deeper Greek style taste.
  • This method can inspire other lamb dishes, especially for family dinners.

Serving and Storage

Serve this Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg sliced thin with warm pita, rice, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with simple sides like cucumber salad or lemon potatoes.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered pan or enjoy cold in wraps or salads.

Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg

This Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg recipe is simple, bold, and packed with classic Mediterranean flavor. With lemon, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, the lamb cooks quickly and evenly for a meal that feels special yet easy enough for weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 430
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Lamb & Marinade
  • 1 butterflied leg of lamb about 4-5 lbs
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1.5 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Grill or Oven

Method
 

  1. Pat the lamb dry and lay it flat on a cutting board. This helps the seasoning stick well.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and zest, oregano, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Rub the mixture generously over the lamb, pressing it in well for maximum flavor.
  4. Let the lamb sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  5. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
  6. Grill or roast the lamb for about 10 to 12 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
  7. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly.

Notes

You can marinate the lamb overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. Add a pinch of cumin or paprika for variation. Pairs well with roasted potatoes, Greek salad, or warm pita bread.

FAQs

Is Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg good for easy lamb recipes?

Yes, it is one of the best cuts for easy lamb recipes. Because it is butterflied, it cooks evenly and quickly. You do not need special tools or long cook times. The flavors soak in fast, which makes it great for busy nights. Even if you are new to cooking lamb, this recipe is very forgiving. It is a great starting point for lamb meals.

Can this recipe work for other lamb dishes?

Absolutely. The same marinade works well for many lamb dishes. You can use it on lamb chops, lamb shoulder, or even ground lamb recipes for dinner. The flavors are simple and flexible. Once you try it, you will want to use it again and again. It is a good base for learning Greek lamb recipes.

What sides go well with this lamb meal?

This lamb meal pairs well with many sides. Roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a simple salad all work nicely. For inspiration, you might enjoy these lamb chop dinner ideas or this fresh grilled lamb with mint orange sauce. You can also explore a classic roast leg of lamb recipe for special occasions.

Final Thoughts from Ama

This Greek Butterflied Lamb Leg is one of those recipes that builds confidence. Even if it is not perfect, it will still taste wonderful. Cooking lamb does not have to feel scary. Take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy the process. Meals like this remind us that good food brings people together, and that is always worth it.

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