If you have been looking for a new recipe to try because regular lamb is getting boring or repeating, you might want to give Mediterranean Lamb a try. This dish is the perfect way to take your grilling in a much more exotic direction with some spice and flavor. It starts with a healthy dose of olive oil that is used in abundance just about everywhere on the lamb so that it will be nice and succulent. The only drawback to using lamb over a more traditional grilling meat is the fat content. But if you have been watching your diet and want to try something new, you are going to want to throw caution to the wind and indulge in this recipe.
Lamb is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, and there are so many ways to prepare it! From spicy Moroccan stews to Greek slow roast, lamb can be paired with vegetables, marinated in fruit juices or yogurt, topped with sauces and spices. It pairs well with chickpeas in cumin-spiced hummus, or as a shawarma combo sandwich.
The Mediterranean region is known for its hearty dishes such as pasta, polenta, and risotto. One of the most famous of these is what has come to be called the “Mediterranean lamb.
The Mediterranean lamb is a savory meat dish that is so popular, restaurants are always looking for a new way to offer it.
Health benefits
Lamb is an excellent source of phosphorus, which is essential for healthy bones and the building of body tissue. It is a good source of zinc, excellent for the skin and the immune system. It also contains iron, which is involved in the formation of red blood cells and B complex vitamins (riboflavin, niacin and B12).
Lamb, like other meats, is a good source of protein, which helps increase muscle mass.
Some of the fats in lamb are good for cardiovascular health. This is the case with monounsaturated fats.
Culinary tips
- Lamb, with the exception of braising pieces, is delicious roasted or grilled.
- Spit roasted, it makes a tasty barbecue, a festive and unifying meal from North Africa.
- We recommend a rosy cooking, between rare and medium.
- Shanks and shoulder roast are best suited for slow cooking in the oven. Slow-cooking lamb can be used in navarin, stew, curry, tagine or stew, depending on the region of the world you want to honor!
- It is beneficial to marinate the lamb before cooking it.
- Lamb pairs well with a variety of flavors. It is enhanced by Mediterranean herbs and spices such as rosemary, mint or sage.
- Indian seasonings are also favorable, and lamb is the basis for many curries.
- The citrus scent blends nicely with the taste of lamb meat.
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The Mediterranean Lamb
Description
The following recipe is an adaptation of the traditional Greek dish, moussaka. The lamb is quickly seared with red peppers, topped with a creamy layer of eggplant, then baked. Fresh basil leaves are sprinkled on top before serving as a garnish. Warm, rich, and fragrant spices make this dish a winter favorite. It's surprisingly simple to prepare with just a few ingredients that are typically found in most kitchens. Lamb is an excellent source of protein, and the onions in this recipe also count as a vegetable - perfect for those coursed-style dinner plans!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat oil and saute the ground lamb until browned; season with salt and pepper. Set aside. In the same pan, saute the garlic for 30 seconds and then add the red peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet with 1/4 inch sides, brush lightly with oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes or until starting to brown. Remove from oven and set aside.
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Spread the cooked red peppers and ground lamb onto the eggplant slices.
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Layer with another 1/4 inch thick slice of eggplant.
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Pour over tomato sauce mix (one 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes and one 6 oz. can of tomato paste). Top with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
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Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes or until browned and bubbly. Remove from oven and let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 258
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.7g14%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Cholesterol 102mg34%
- Sodium 674mg29%
- Total Carbohydrate 10.9g4%
- Dietary Fiber 4.8g20%
- Sugars 5.5g
- Protein 33.9g68%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
