Easter is just around the corner, and for many families, it’s a time to gather together and share a delicious meal. If you’re looking for some inspiration for your holiday feast, look no further than the star of the show: lamb! This classic Easter main course is sure to impress your guests with its tender flavor and versatility.
From traditional roasts to innovative kebabs and curries, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering lamb recipes that are perfect for the occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, our collection of Easter lamb recipes has something for everyone. So why not try something new this year? From herb-crusted roasts to slow-cooked stews and flavorful kebabs, we’ll guide you through the world of lamb dishes that are sure to make your Easter feast unforgettable.
Herb-Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb
Elevate your roast leg of lamb game with this flavorful and aromatic herb crust, perfect for a special occasion or Sunday dinner. This recipe yields a tender and juicy roast with a savory, herby flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and garlic.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the leg of lamb in a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1.5-2 pound leg of lamb.
Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of lamb with the pungency of garlic and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush lamb chops with olive oil on both sides.
4. Sprinkle the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Place lamb chops on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Slow-Cooked Greek Lamb with Lemon and Oregano
Slow-Cooked Greek Lamb with Lemon and Oregano: A flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the rich taste of lamb with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano, all in one delicious slow-cooked meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless leg of lamb
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb in the slow cooker and pour the lemon-herb mixture over it.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Remove the lamb from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Easter Lamb Stew with Spring Vegetables
This hearty stew is a delightful way to celebrate Easter, featuring tender lamb and an array of fresh spring vegetables. A perfect blend of comforting flavors and vibrant colors to bring joy to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and peas. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lamb is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Mint and Honey Glazed Lamb Rack
Mint and Honey Glazed Lamb Rack Recipe
Elevate your lamb dish with the refreshing flavors of mint and honey! This recipe yields a tender and flavorful rack, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb racks (6-8 bones each)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mint, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place lamb racks on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and brush with the honey-mint mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lamb reaches desired doneness (135°F/57°C internal temperature). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Mint and Honey Glazed Lamb Rack!
Moroccan Spiced Lamb Tagine
A flavorful and aromatic stew originating from Morocco, this lamb tagine is slow-cooked with a blend of spices, dried fruits, and nuts to create a rich and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb in batches, then set aside.
3. Cook the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
4. Add the spices and cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the lamb to the pot with the chicken broth, dates, and almonds.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or overnight.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Lamb and Potato Hotpot with Thyme
A comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening. This lamb and potato hotpot is infused with the warmth of thyme and simmered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the sliced potatoes, lamb broth, and browned lamb cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Lamb Shanks Braised in Red Wine
This classic dish is a staple of French cuisine, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. The slow cooking process tenderizes the lamb shanks to fall-off-the-bone perfection, while the rich red wine sauce infuses every bite with depth and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove lamb from pot and set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine and beef broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
7. Serve with sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt and Cucumber Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this refreshing twist on traditional kebabs, paired with a cool and tangy yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Yogurt and Cucumber Sauce:
+ 250ml plain yogurt
+ 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill or broil kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. For the sauce, combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve kebabs with Yogurt and Cucumber Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines tender lamb, creamy feta, and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, and feta; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the lamb mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the rich flavor of lamb with the bright, fresh taste of tomato and basil. Serve with pasta, over rice, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the tomato sauce over medium heat. Add chopped basil and stir to combine.
6. Serve the cooked meatballs in the tomato basil sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lamb Biryani with Saffron and Cashews
Experience the rich flavors of India with this aromatic and visually stunning lamb biryani dish, elevated by the subtle warmth of saffron and the satisfying crunch of cashews.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cashews, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the lamb pieces with salt, cumin, and coriander until browned. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, saffron mixture (with water), and cooked lamb to the saucepan. Stir well.
4. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions. Mix with cooked lamb mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cashews.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Experience the classic flavors of Greece with this simple recipe for lamb souvlaki served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Add lamb pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or broil lamb for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve grilled lamb skewers with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb and Spinach Filo Pie
Lamb and Spinach Filo Pie Recipe: A flavorful and flaky pastry filled with tender lamb, spinach, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package filo pastry (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing filo)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb, onion, and garlic until lamb is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add spinach, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Thaw filo pastry according to package instructions.
5. Layer 2-3 sheets of filo in a pie dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
6. Fill the pie crust with lamb mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Top with remaining filo sheets, brushing with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lamb Curry with Coconut Milk
This classic lamb curry recipe is a staple of Indian cuisine, infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk. With tender lamb, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook 1 minute.
4. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 30 minutes or until lamb is tender.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lamb Burgers with Mint Aioli
Elevate your backyard barbecues or picnics with these flavorful lamb burgers, topped with a cooling mint aioli that will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill lamb burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, mint leaves, and lemon juice in a bowl.
6. Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and red onion.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lamb and Apricot Tagine with Couscous
Experience the rich flavors of North African cuisine with this hearty lamb and apricot tagine served over fluffy couscous. A perfect blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Couscous for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add apricots, tomatoes, broth, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Serve over couscous, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Lamb Loin with Pomegranate Glaze
Elevate your dinner party with this sweet and savory lamb loin recipe, perfectly glazed with a pomegranate reduction. This show-stopping dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb loins (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, and olive oil. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until thickened.
3. Meanwhile, season lamb loins with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Grill or pan-fry lamb loins for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Brush pomegranate glaze over lamb loins during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender lamb with rich sweet potatoes for a satisfying comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lamb in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes until tender; drain and mash with butter and chicken broth.
5. Transfer lamb mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish; top with mashed sweet potatoes.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top; bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lamb and Chickpea Stew with Turmeric
This aromatic stew is a perfect blend of tender lamb, creamy chickpeas, and the warmth of turmeric. Serve it over crusty bread or with some fluffy rice for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups lamb broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, broth, tomato paste, and browned lamb. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your loved ones this Easter with these delectable lamb recipes! From classic roasts and grills to global-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered. Indulge in tender Herb-Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb or Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops. Try Slow-Cooked Greek Lamb with Lemon and Oregano for a flavorful twist. Or, opt for hearty stews like Easter Lamb Stew with Spring Vegetables or Lamb and Potato Hotpot with Thyme. Whatever your taste, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 delicious Easter lamb recipes.
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