Arni Lemonato Recipe – Greek Special
Arni Lemonato is a beloved Greek cuisine staple, featuring lemon roast lamb infused with Mediterranean flavors of olive oil, garlic, and oregano. This oven-roasted lamb is tender, juicy, and bursting with the bright tang of lemon — a perfect centerpiece for Sunday dinners or festive gatherings. As a traditional Greek recipe, it captures the essence of simple ingredients transformed into rich, heartwarming comfort food.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time2 hr 30 min
- Total Time2 hr 50 min
Arni Lemonato Ingredients:
- 1.5–2 kg (3–4 lbs) lamb shoulder or leg, bone-in
- 4–5 garlic cloves, sliced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered (optional)
Arni Lemonato Instructions:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Make small incisions in the lamb and insert slices of garlic into the cuts.
In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Rub the mixture generously over the lamb.
Place the lamb in a roasting pan; pour broth around it.
If using potatoes, arrange them around the lamb and drizzle with extra marinade.
Cover with foil and roast for about 2 hours, basting occasionally.
Remove foil and roast uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until golden and crisp.
Let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with pan juices and roasted potatoes.
Recipe Notes :
Authentic Preparation: Use bone-in lamb for deeper flavor and traditional texture.
Slow Roasting Tips: Keep the lamb covered during most of the cooking time to retain moisture, then uncover for a crisp finish.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or warm pita bread.
Greek Family Meal: Arni Lemonato is often served during Easter or special family gatherings.
Classic Lamb Dish: This lemony roast lamb embodies the balance of freshness and richness found in classic Greek cooking.
