Oven-Roasted Herb and Citrus Rack of Lamb

Infused with a vibrant marinade of fresh lemon, lime, rosemary, and thyme

Elevate your Easter celebration with this succulent Herb and Citrus Rack of Lamb, perfectly oven-roasted to bring out its natural flavors. Infused with a vibrant marinade of fresh lemon, lime, rosemary, and thyme, this dish is a delightful centerpiece for your festive table.

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of lamb (about eight ribs each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

   • In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Whisk together until well combined.

2. Marinate the Lamb:

   • Season the rack of lamb generously with salt and pepper. Rub the herb and citrus marinade all over the lamb, ensuring even coverage.

   • Cover and let the lamb marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight to deepen the flavors.

3. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature ensures a nicely browned exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

4. Prepare for Roasting:

   • Remove the lamb from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature, promoting even cooking.

5. Roast the Lamb:

   • Place the marinated rack of lamb in a roasting pan fitted with a rack to catch drippings.

   • Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).

6. Rest the Lamb:

   • Once roasted, remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every slice is juicy and tender.

7. Serve:

   • Carve the lamb between the ribs and serve immediately. Pair with seasonal vegetables or a light salad to complement the rich flavors of the lamb.

Sheed’s Tips:

• Always use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the lamb without cutting into the meat, preserving its juices and flavor.

• For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the roasting pan before placing it in the oven, creating a delicious jus that can be drizzled over the lamb when serving.

This Herb and Citrus Rack of Lamb is an elegant and flavorful dish that's sure to impress your guests this Easter. Enjoy the tender, juicy lamb with its fragrant herb crust as part of your celebratory meal.