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Roast Leg of Lamb with Almond-Mint Pesto

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Roast Leg of Lamb with Almond-Mint Pesto is a showstopper that combines tender, juicy lamb with a zesty, nutty pesto. This dish not only tantalizes the palate but also creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in leg of lamb (4–5 lbs)
  • 2 cups fresh mint leaves
  • 1 cup blanched almonds
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Pat the leg of lamb dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. In a food processor, blend mint leaves, almonds, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, Parmesan cheese, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth yet slightly chunky.
  4. Coat half the pesto over the lamb and reserve the rest for serving.
  5. Roast the lamb in a loosely covered pan for about 1 hour 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
  6. Remove foil during the last 20 minutes for a crispy crust. Rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Customize your pesto by swapping almonds with walnuts or adding lemon zest. Let leftover roast cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat leftovers in a covered dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 20 minutes.

Find it online: https://timeforkitchen.com/irresistible-roast-leg-of-lamb-with-almond-mint-pesto/