Leg of Lamb with Spinach and Feta: A Mediterranean Delight

The leg of lamb is a star in Mediterranean cooking, known for its tender, flavorful meat and versatility. In Greece, lamb is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings, and it's commonly paired with bold ingredients like spinach, feta, and herbs. This particular recipe brings together the savory, slightly salty taste of feta and the freshness of spinach, creating a nutritious and delicious dish.

Why Spinach and Feta?

Spinach and feta are classic ingredients in Mediterranean cuisine, often found in dishes like spanakopita. Spinach provides a slightly earthy flavor and a wealth of nutrients, including iron and vitamins A and C. Feta, on the other hand, is tangy, creamy, and salty, which beautifully complements the richness of lamb. Together, they create a balanced filling that enhances the taste of the lamb and adds a variety of textures and nutrients.

Preparing the Leg of Lamb

For this leg of lamb recipe, you'll need a bone-in leg of lamb. Bone-in cuts provide better flavor, and the bone helps retain the juices while cooking. When selecting your lamb, choose a fresh piece with a bright pink color and good fat marbling. This marbling is essential for tenderness and flavor.

Ingredients Needed for the Lamb Preparation:

• 1 bone-in leg of lamb (approximately 5-6 pounds)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and oregano
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• Lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Prepping the Lamb: Start by scoring the leg of the lamb, making shallow cuts in the fat layer. This helps the seasonings penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor.
2. Seasoning: Rub the lamb with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Marinating: If you have time, marinate the lamb overnight for deeper flavor. You can add a bit of olive oil to help the seasonings stick.

Now, let's prepare the stuffing. This mixture of spinach, feta, and herbs creates a delicious filling that complements the lamb's natural flavors.

Ingredients Needed for the Stuffing:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, then add the spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
2. Mixing: In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, feta, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the stuffing is evenly combined.

Assembling the Lamb with Spinach and Feta

1. Stuffing the Lamb: Lay the lamb leg flat and spread the spinach and feta stuffing over the surface, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Roll the lamb tightly and secure it with kitchen twine. This keeps the stuffing in place and helps the lamb maintain its shape.
2. Cooking the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Place the lamb in a roasting pan, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with foil.
3. Roasting: Cook the lamb in the oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Adjust the time based on your preferred level of doneness.
4. Resting: Let the lamb rest for at least 15 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy roast.

Leg of lamb with spinach and feta is a showstopper, but pairing it with suitable side dishes will elevate your meal. Here are a few Mediterranean-inspired sides that go beautifully with this dish:

1. Greek Salad: This is a fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, roasted potatoes with herbs like rosemary and thyme make a perfect accompaniment.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, seasoned and grilled, add color and flavor to your plate.
4. Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber and yogurt sauce that complements the richness of the lamb.

Tips for the Perfect Leg of Lamb

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
2. Season Generously: Lamb has a strong flavor that can handle a lot of seasoning. Don't be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Let it Rest: Allowing the lamb to rest after cooking is crucial for a juicy, flavorful result.

Health Benefits of This Dish

This leg of lamb with spinach and feta is not only delicious but also nutritious:

1. Lamb: A rich source of protein, vitamins B6 and B12, and essential minerals like zinc and iron.
2. Spinach: Packed with iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
3. Feta Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, with a lower fat content than other cheeses.

A Mediterranean Twist on Tradition

• Cooking leg of lamb with spinach and feta offers a unique and flavorful twist on traditional lamb recipes. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a special dinner, combining the bold, earthy flavors of lamb with the tangy, fresh taste of spinach and feta. 
• Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to treat your family to a Mediterranean feast, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
• Enjoy your culinary journey to the Mediterranean with this delectable leg of lamb with spinach and feta. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exotic, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your home.

About One Stop Halal

Welcome to the Home of Halal Lamb. We carry various lamb cuts that are hard to find elsewhere. We deliver to your doorstep anywhere in the United States within 1-2 business days.