Celebrate Christmas the Aussie way with a golden, herb-crusted leg of lamb, roasted to perfection and served with tender, colorful vegetables. This festive centerpiece is simple to prepare, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 20–25 min
Cook Time: 1 hr 30 min–1 hr 45 min
Ingredients
For the Lamb:
- 2.5–3 kg bone-in leg of lamb
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- For the Veggies:
- 600 g baby potatoes, halved
- 400 g carrots, cut into batons
- 300 g asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
For Basting (Optional for glossy finish):
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Prep the Lamb:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Make small incisions in the lamb and tuck in slices of garlic. Combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, then rub all over the lamb to create a fragrant herb crust.
Prep the Veggies:
Toss potatoes and carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Arrange them in a roasting pan, leaving space for the lamb.
Roast the Lamb and Veggies:
Place the lamb on top of or beside the potatoes and carrots. Roast at 180°C for 1 hr 15 min–1 hr 30 min, depending on size and desired doneness:
- Medium-rare: ~60–65°C internal temp
- Medium: ~70°C internal temp
Baste every 30 minutes with pan juices or a mix of stock + olive oil for a glossy, golden finish.
Add Asparagus:
About 10–15 minutes before the lamb is done, add asparagus to the pan. Roast until tender but still bright green.
Finish for Golden Crust:
Increase the oven to 200°C (390°F) for the last 10 minutes to achieve a rich, caramelized crust on the lamb.
Rest and Serve:
Remove the lamb, tent with foil, and rest for 15 minutes before carving. Toss the roasted vegetables in the remaining pan juices for maximum flavor and serve alongside the lamb.
Tips for Festive Perfection:
- Use a bone-in leg for maximum flavor and a stunning presentation.
- Add asparagus late in roasting so it stays tender and vibrant.
- Baste for that glossy, golden finish that makes the lamb look as good as it tastes.
- Keep presentation simple, a rustic arrangement of veggies around the lamb lets its natural beauty shine.
With just a few simple steps and minimal effort, this Australian Christmas roast lamb offers a flavorful and festive centerpiece that’s sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal with family and friends this holiday season!
Looking for more simple, healthy recipes?Visit AB Health and Fitness for meal inspiration, wellness tips, and more recipes designed to support your healthy lifestyle.
