"Arni Psito" - Roast Leg Of Lamb
Arni Psito is a traditional Greek roasted leg of lamb dish, featuring tender meat seasoned with lemon, garlic, herbs, and spices. Perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners, it offers a rich, savory flavor with a hint of citrus and herbs, showcasing Mediterranean culinary heritage.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm for 15 minutes.
- Trim excess fat from the leg of lamb.
- Rub the lamb with juice from half a lemon.
- Season the lamb all over with 3 1/2 teaspoons of salt.
- Sprinkle with black pepper and dried oregano.
- Chop the onion and rub it onto the lamb.
- Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle over the lamb.
- Slice the garlic cloves and insert them into the meat or spread over the surface.
- Place the lamb in a roasting pan.
- Add 2 cups of water, 1 cup of red wine, and 1/3 cup of olive oil to the pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven, basting periodically, until the meat reaches desired doneness (about 180 minutes).
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the leg of lamb with the lemon juice, salt, and spices overnight. If you prefer, substitute the red wine with a rich broth for a non-alcoholic option. For a more intense garlic flavor, consider using whole cloves instead of sliced. Basting every 30 minutes helps keep the meat moist and flavorful, so don't skip this step.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Arni Psito with roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Lamb Loaf or Lima Bean Soup. For a complete feast, consider offering crusty bread or a side of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover roast lamb can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, which can last up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave on low power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Arni Psito" - Roast Leg Of Lamb contains roughly 620 calories, with 11g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (158% of the Daily Value), and calcium (129% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to know when the lamb is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), while medium should reach about 160°F (71°C). Always let the meat rest for at least 15 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Can I use a smaller cut of lamb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a smaller cut like lamb shoulder or chops, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller cuts will cook faster, so check for doneness after 60-90 minutes, depending on the thickness. The flavors from the marinade and cooking liquid will still infuse the meat beautifully.
How can I enhance the flavor of the roast?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade. You can also stuff the lamb with garlic cloves, herbs, or even lemon slices for added aroma. Additionally, deglazing the pan with extra wine or broth after roasting can create a delicious sauce for serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).