Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with these succulent lamb skewers and crispy roasted potatoes. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that promises to delight your senses and transport you to sun-drenched Mediterranean landscapes. Perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings, these lamb skewers offer an irresistible blend of aromatic spices and tender meat.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Skewers
- 600g leg of lamb, cut into 3cm pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or thyme), finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Roasted Potatoes
- 8 small potatoes (charlotte or new potatoes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or thyme), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
US Measurements: 1.3 lbs lamb, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 8 small potatoes Metric Measurements: 600g lamb, 30ml olive oil, 8 small potatoes
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Marinate the Lamb
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Olive oil
- Cumin
- Sweet paprika
- Ground coriander
- Minced garlic
- Fresh rosemary
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Add lamb pieces
- Mix thoroughly to coat meat evenly
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours
2. Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Wash potatoes thoroughly
- Cut potatoes in half or into wedges
- In a large bowl, toss potatoes with:
- Olive oil
- Fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper
- Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet
- Bake 25-30 minutes
- Turn halfway through cooking
- Aim for golden brown exterior
- Ensure crispy outside, tender inside
3. Cook the Lamb Skewers
- Thread marinated lamb onto skewers
- Grill or cook on a hot griddle
- Cook 3-4 minutes per side
- Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Cooking Details
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Prep Time: 30-40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutritional Highlights (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- High-quality protein from lamb
- Rich in iron and B vitamins
- Moderate healthy fats
Why This Lamb Skewer Recipe Stands Out
This dish is a nutritional powerhouse that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Lamb provides essential proteins and minerals, while the herb and spice marinade offers anti-inflammatory benefits. The roasted potatoes add a comforting element with their crispy exterior and tender interior, making this a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips
- Choose a leg of lamb with minimal fat for best results
- Allow meat to come to room temperature before cooking
- Rest meat after cooking to retain juices
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh Greek salad
- Pair with tzatziki or yogurt sauce
- Accompany with a crisp white wine or light red
Bon appétit!