Herb-Marinated Lamb Leg with Balsamic Radicchio & Olives

Tender lamb leg marinated in garlic, lemon, and olive oil, quickly roasted and served with charred radicchio in a buttery balsamic glaze and a zesty olive-parsley mix.

This recipe comes from Skye Gyngell's Spring restaurant, where simplicity meets bold flavors. The lamb is marinated overnight in garlic, lemon, and olive oil, making it incredibly tender and quick to cook.

Serve the sliced lamb with charred radicchio wedges that have been glazed in butter and balsamic vinegar, plus a bright olive and parsley salad. It's a stunning yet straightforward dish perfect for a special dinner.

Ingredients

Servings 6

Converted amounts are rounded.

Method

  1. Place the lamb leg in a large bowl. Drizzle generously with olive oil and squeeze the lemon juice over it. Add the garlic slivers, toss to coat, then cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours).
  2. Remove the lamb from the fridge 20 minutes before cooking to come to room temperature. Season each piece generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (400°F fan) / gas mark 7.
  4. Heat a large, heavy frying pan over high heat until very hot. Sear the lamb pieces on all sides until well browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. Transfer the seared lamb to a baking tray and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 55-150°F.
  6. Remove the lamb from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes while you prepare the radicchio.
  7. Cut the radicchio heads into thin wedges. Drizzle with a little olive oil and grill (on a grill pan or under the broiler) for about 5 minutes, turning once, until just wilted and lightly charred.
  8. Transfer the grilled radicchio to a frying pan. Add the butter and balsamic vinegar, and cook over medium heat, stirring, until the radicchio softens and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  9. In a small bowl, combine the chopped olives with a drizzle of olive oil and a handful of chopped fresh parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Slice the rested lamb against the grain into thick slices. Arrange on a platter with the balsamic radicchio and the olive-parsley mixture. Serve immediately.

💡 Tips

  • For best results, marinate the lamb overnight; even 4 hours will add flavor.
  • If you don't have a grill pan, you can char the radicchio under the oven broiler.
  • Let the lamb rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Inspired by a recipe from Olive Magazine

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