Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean? Look no further! Greece’s rich culinary heritage is renowned for its bold flavors, aromas, and textures, and what better way to experience it than with a delicious lamb dish? From classic gyros to innovative tacos, we’ve curated 18 mouth-watering Greek lamb recipes that will take your dinner table on a culinary journey across the Aegean.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Greek lamb cuisine, exploring marinades, sauces, and cooking techniques that will make your taste buds sing. From tender lamb chops to hearty stews and flavorful skewers, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors of Greece’s beloved dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Herb-Marinated Greek Lamb Chops
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of lamb chops with the bright, herby flavors of Greece. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, and lemon juice.
2. Add the lamb chops to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
5. Remove lamb chops from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill or broil lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Roasted Greek Lamb Shoulder with Lemon and Oregano
A classic Greek dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal, this slow-roasted lamb shoulder is infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano. With minimal prep time and hours of hands-off cooking, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shoulder (about 2 lbs), bone-in
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb shoulder in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven.
5. Roast for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece with these tender and juicy lamb souvlaki skewers, served with a refreshing side of tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Tzatziki sauce ingredients: 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add lamb cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, prepare tzatziki sauce by combining grated cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Serve souvlaki skewers with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Classic Greek Lamb Gyros with Homemade Pita Bread
Savor the flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender lamb, crispy vegetables, and soft homemade pita bread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
For the Lamb:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pita Bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3/4 cup warm water
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb ingredients and mix well.
3. Heat pita bread ingredients in a mixing bowl until yeast is activated.
4. Knead dough for 5 minutes; let rise for 30 minutes.
5. Form into balls and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden.
6. Assemble gyros by slicing lamb, adding toppings (tomato, onion, cucumber, feta cheese), and wrapping in pita bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks with Tomatoes and Herbs
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this hearty braise, featuring tender lamb shanks smothered in a flavorful tomato and herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Add chopped onion to pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shanks to pot, cover with lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Grilled Greek Lamb Burgers with Feta and Mint
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with these juicy lamb burgers, infused with the brightness of fresh mint and the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tzatziki sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, garlic, olive oil, mint, feta cheese, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with additional feta cheese, mint leaves, and tzatziki sauce (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs in Rich Tomato Sauce
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Greece with a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using) in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve meatballs with rich tomato sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Greek Lamb and Orzo Bake
A hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender lamb, nutty orzo, and a hint of Mediterranean spices, all cooked to perfection in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove lamb from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in orzo pasta, chicken broth, red wine (if using), oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Return lamb to pot, cover, and transfer to oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lamb is tender and orzo is cooked.
6. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Kabobs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these succulent lamb kabobs, served with a tangy and creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
+ 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread lamb pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil, then season with garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb is cooked through.
5. For the sauce, mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve kabobs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lamb Stew with Potatoes and Olives
This hearty stew is a classic Greek dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Rich flavors from lamb, potatoes, and olives combine to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cubed potatoes, sliced olives, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Greek Lamb Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
These flavorful dolmas are a classic Greek appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender lamb, aromatic spices, and crunchy grape leaves is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, rice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, with the stem end facing you.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the lamb mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. Arrange dolmas seam-side down in a baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until grape leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lamb Pita Pockets with Cucumber Relish
Greek Lamb Pita Pockets with Cucumber Relish: A flavorful twist on traditional gyro-style sandwiches, these pita pockets are filled with juicy lamb, crispy veggies, and a refreshing cucumber relish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula and spinach)
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cucumber Relish (recipe below)
Cucumber Relish:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine lamb, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patty shapes.
4. Place patties on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble pita pockets with lamb patties, mixed greens, red onion, and cucumber slices. Top with Cucumber Relish.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Greek Lamb Tacos with Feta and Tzatziki
Elevate your taco game with this innovative recipe that combines the bold flavors of Greece with the comfort of a classic Mexican dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, pickled jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb, then cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing the lamb into thin strips and placing on tortillas with crumbled feta, parsley, and a dollop of Tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Sausage with Roasted Peppers and Onions
Experience the flavors of Greece with this simple yet impressive dish featuring juicy lamb sausage, sweet roasted peppers, and caramelized onions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Greek-style lamb sausages (about 1 pound)
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the lamb sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the peppers and onions on a separate baking sheet, drizzled with olive oil, for about 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove the sausages from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve the sliced lamb sausage with roasted peppers and onions, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Greek Lamb and Spinach Phyllo Pie
This traditional Greek dish is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, with layers of flaky phyllo pastry, tender lamb, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb, onion, and garlic until browned.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
5. Spread the lamb mixture over the phyllo, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
6. Top with additional layers of phyllo and finish with a layer of olive oil.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Lamb Ribs with Honey and Rosemary Glaze
Elevate your lamb ribs game with this sweet and savory Greek-inspired recipe, featuring a sticky honey and rosemary glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of lamb ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Season lamb ribs with salt and pepper. Place the ribs in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
4. Brush the honey-rosemary glaze all over the lamb ribs.
5. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
6. Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Greek Lamb Sliders with Kalamata Olive Tapenade
Experience the bold flavors of Greece in every bite with these tender lamb sliders topped with rich Kalamata olive tapenade and fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small hamburger buns
– Kalamata olive tapenade (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8 small patties.
4. Brush grill or grill pan with olive oil. Cook lamb sliders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Assemble sliders by spreading a dollop of Kalamata olive tapenade on each bun, followed by a cooked lamb patty and a sprinkle of parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of Greece with these 18 mouthwatering lamb recipes! From classic gyro wraps and souvlaki skewers to hearty stews and braises, these dishes are sure to transport you to the Mediterranean. Marinate your lamb in a mix of herbs and lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor or slow-roast it with oregano and garlic for a rich, comforting meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy or light and refreshing, there’s a Greek lamb recipe here that’s sure to please.
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