Bring the flavors of Greece to your table with this Greek-style lamb shank recipe. Tender and flavorful, the lamb is marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs before being roasted to perfection. Paired with golden lemon potatoes, this dish is a true celebration of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a special dinner, this recipe combines bold flavors and hearty ingredients that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Shank:
- 1 leg of lamb (4-5 pounds)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Potatoes:
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Lamb
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, oregano, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Rub the marinade generously all over the lamb, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a pan, fat side up, and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 2: Roast the Lamb
- Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
- 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare
- 145°F (63°C) for medium
- During roasting, baste the lamb occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Potatoes
- While the lamb is roasting, toss the quartered potatoes in a bowl with lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are well coated.
- Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Roast the Potatoes
- After the lamb has been roasting for 30 minutes, place the potatoes in the oven. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Once the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Resting ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices.
- Serve the carved lamb with the lemon potatoes, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the meat for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh rosemary or oregano for a beautiful finishing touch.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
Tips for the Perfect Greek-Style Lamb Shank
- Choose the right lamb: Opt for a bone-in lamb leg for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate ahead: For deeper flavor, marinate the lamb for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Customize the seasoning: Add a pinch of paprika or cumin to the marinade for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Crispier potatoes: To achieve extra crispy potatoes, spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use lamb shanks instead of a leg of lamb?
Yes! You can substitute lamb shanks for the leg of lamb. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lamb shanks may take a little longer to become tender.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or a side of roasted vegetables. For bread lovers, serve with pita bread or a crusty loaf to soak up the juices.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the lamb and potatoes ahead of time, then reheat gently before serving. The flavors will intensify as the dish rests.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the lamb and potatoes in the oven at 325°F (160°C), covered with foil, until warmed through. This helps maintain the moisture and prevents drying out.
Conclusion
This Greek-style lamb shank recipe with lemon potatoes is a crowd-pleaser that brings bold Mediterranean flavors to your table. With its juicy, tender lamb and zesty roasted potatoes, it’s the perfect dish for holidays, dinner parties, or simply when you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. Try it out for your next family gathering and enjoy a taste of Greece in every bite!