Print Options:

California Roast Lamb

A beautifully roasted leg of lamb garnished with fresh herbs, surrounded by artichokes and lemon halves in a rustic serving dish.

This California Roast Lamb is a celebration of simple yet vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for dinner with family or friends when you want something hearty but effortless.

With tender lamb infused with garlic and oregano and paired with artichokes, it’s a dish that captures the spirit of California dining—light, fresh, and delightful.

Time
Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 150 mins Rest Time: 15 mins Total Time: 3 hrs
Cooking Temp 400  °F
Servings 12
Description

California Roast Lamb combines the essence of Mediterranean spices with a touch of citrus for a deliciously juicy roast. Slow-roasted with garlic, oregano, and artichokes, this recipe brings out the lamb's natural richness in every bite.

Ingredients
  • 1 leg of lamb (4 to 5 pounds)
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, halved
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cans (8 ounces each)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 of Juice lemon
  • 3 large 3–5 fresh artichokes, quartered
  • 3 small lemons, halved (optional)
  • Optional: Fresh oregano and thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Cut small slits in the lamb and insert halved garlic cloves into each slit.
  3. Rub the lamb evenly with seasoned salt, pepper, and oregano.
  4. Place the lamb in a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes.
  5. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue roasting for 1 hour.
  6. Skim off any fat from the pan. Pour tomato sauce, water, and lemon juice over the lamb.
  7. Arrange quartered artichokes and halved lemons (if using) around the lamb.
  8. Roast for an additional hour or until the meat reaches the desired doneness: medium-rare (135°F), medium (140°F), or medium-well (145°F).
  9. Remove from the oven and let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
  10. Garnish with fresh oregano or thyme sprigs if desired.
Nutrition Facts

Servings 12


Amount Per Serving
Calories 152kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5g8%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Cholesterol 68mg23%
Sodium 365mg16%
Total Carbohydrate 6g2%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 1g
Protein 21g42%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For the best flavor, use fresh artichokes and ensure the lamb rests after cooking to lock in its juices.

Keywords: roast lamb recipe, Mediterranean lamb, easy dinner ideas