Spring is the season of fresh beginnings, and what better way to celebrate than with tender, succulent lamb dishes that burst with vibrant flavors? Whether you’re hosting an Easter feast, a cozy family dinner, or a weekend gathering with friends, lamb—with its rich, savory taste—takes center stage. But why settle for the same old roast when you can explore a world of spices, herbs, and bold culinary twists?
From slow-braised shanks falling off the bone to juicy grilled chops kissed by smoky char, these 13 recipes will inspire you to take lamb beyond the ordinary. Imagine garlic and rosemary-infused racks with a crispy crust, Moroccan-spiced stews simmered with apricots and cinnamon, or zesty mint-and-feta-stuffed burgers sizzling on the grill. Each dish brings its own personality, balancing earthy, sweet, and tangy notes to create unforgettable meals.
This lineup isn’t just about cooking lamb—it’s about transforming it into something extraordinary. We’ve included quick weeknight options, show-stopping weekend projects, and even global-inspired dishes that transport your taste buds. Plus, handy tips on cuts, marinades, and perfect pairings (hello, roasted spring vegetables and herby yogurt sauces!) ensure every bite is a delight.
So, whether you’re a longtime lamb lover or just discovering its magic, these recipes promise to bring excitement to your table. Fire up the oven, sharpen your knives, and let’s dive into a world of bold, spring-ready flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
This herb-crusted rack of lamb is a standout dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. With a delightful blend of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, it creates an aromatic crust that enhances the rich taste of the lamb. It’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a great choice for both special occasions and casual family dinners.
The tender meat pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, providing a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is approachable and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of lamb, Frenched
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a herb paste.
- Coat the rack of lamb with the herb mixture, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
- Press the breadcrumbs and chopped parsley onto the herb-coated lamb to form a crust.
- Place the rack in a roasting pan and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Lamb Curry with Coconut Milk
This lamb curry with coconut milk is a delightful blend of spices that creates a rich and creamy dish. The tender lamb pairs beautifully with the sweetness of coconut milk, making each bite a treat for your taste buds. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe, perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.
The aromatic spices combined with the smooth coconut milk bring a warm, comforting flavor to the table. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Steamed rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the lamb pieces to the pot, browning them on all sides.
- Mix in the curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the lamb with the spices.
- Pour in the coconut milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 1.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside steamed rice or naan.
Lamb Burgers with Feta and Spinach
Lamb burgers bring a fresh twist to your typical burger night. Juicy and flavorful, these patties are infused with feta and spinach, creating a savory bite that’s packed with deliciousness. Perfect for grilling or pan-searing, they make for a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
The combination of lamb, feta, and spinach not only adds a nice zing but also keeps these burgers moist. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Serve them with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 burger buns
- Condiments of choice (e.g., ketchup, mustard, tzatziki)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped spinach, feta cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your grill. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in the skillet.
- Assemble the burgers by placing the patties on the buns and adding your favorite condiments and toppings. Enjoy!
Spicy Lamb Tacos with Mango Salsa
Spicy lamb tacos with mango salsa are a fun and vibrant dish that brightens up any meal. The tender, seasoned lamb pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy mango salsa, offering a delightful flavor combination. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also simple to whip up on a busy weeknight or for a gathering with friends.
Each bite brings a burst of fresh flavors, with the spices from the lamb complementing the juicy mango. You can customize the heat by adjusting the spices to your liking. Get ready to enjoy a taco night that stands out!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Lamb: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground lamb. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Prepare the Salsa: In a bowl, mix the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and lime juice. Stir to combine and set aside.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a portion of cooked lamb in each tortilla, top with mango salsa, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your spicy lamb tacos with a squeeze of lime, if desired!
Mint and Garlic Grilled Lamb Chops
Mint and garlic grilled lamb chops are a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of spring. The combination of fresh mint and aromatic garlic creates a vibrant marinade that enhances the natural richness of the lamb. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your guests.
Perfect for outdoor grilling or a cozy dinner at home, these lamb chops are sure to become a favorite. Pair them with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 8 lamb chops
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the chopped mint, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Marinate the Lamb: Place the lamb chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring each chop is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chops: Remove the lamb chops from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- Serve: Remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious mint and garlic grilled lamb chops!
Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Sauce
Lamb kofta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground lamb, often mixed with herbs and spices. The juicy, grilled meatballs are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them a perfect choice for a relaxed dinner or a fun gathering. Paired with a cool yogurt sauce, this dish offers a delightful contrast of flavors.
The combination of spices in the kofta, such as cumin and coriander, adds depth, while the yogurt sauce provides a refreshing balance. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, lamb kofta is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, parsley, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until combined.
- Mold the mixture into oval-shaped meatballs or patties and thread them onto skewers.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the skewers lightly with olive oil.
- Grill the kofta for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- For the yogurt sauce, mix 1 cup of plain yogurt with a pinch of salt, a squirt of lemon juice, and some chopped mint or cucumber, if desired.
- Serve the kofta hot with the yogurt sauce on the side.
Lamb and Apricot Tagine
Lamb and Apricot Tagine is a delightful dish that brings together tender lamb and sweet apricots in a fragrant sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for any home cook to tackle.
The combination of spices, juicy fruit, and rich lamb creates a comforting meal that warms the soul. Plus, cooking it in a tagine or a heavy pot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels both special and homely.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup dried apricots, halved
- 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Couscous or rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a tagine or large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add lamb chunks to the pot, browning them on all sides. Season with cumin, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 hours until the lamb is tender.
- Add dried apricots and cook for another 30 minutes until the fruit is softened and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot over couscous or rice, garnished with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro.
Braised Lamb Shanks with Root Vegetables
Braising lamb shanks is a fantastic way to bring out the rich flavors of spring lamb, especially when paired with hearty root vegetables. This dish is not only delicious but also quite easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and infused with aromatic spices, while the vegetables soak up the savory broth.
The combination of tender lamb and sweet, earthy root veggies creates a dish that’s comforting and satisfying. You’ll enjoy the warmth and depth of flavor in every bite, making it a delightful centerpiece for your springtime table.
Ingredients
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef or lamb broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper and brown them on all sides. Remove the shanks and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions, carrots, parsnips, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then add the wine and broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits.
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, add rosemary and thyme, and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve garnished with lemon zest if desired.
Mediterranean Lamb Pita Pockets
Mediterranean Lamb Pita Pockets are a delicious way to enjoy spring lamb. Tender, juicy lamb is seasoned with bold spices, bringing vibrant flavors that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. This recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy sauce adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the overall experience. These pita pockets are versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite toppings. Serve them warm for a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Lamb: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground lamb. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Warm the Pita: While the lamb is cooking, warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Fill the Pockets: Once the lamb is cooked, spoon a generous amount into each warmed pita. Top with cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cucumber, and parsley.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Add a dollop of tzatziki sauce to each pita pocket for extra flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Fold the pita and serve immediately for a fresh and tasty meal!
Lamb and Vegetable Skewers
Lamb and vegetable skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy bold flavors in a simple and fun format. Perfect for grilling, these skewers combine tender lamb pieces with colorful, fresh vegetables, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. The marinade adds a zesty kick that makes every bite memorable.
This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Assemble your skewers, let them marinate, and then grill or broil them for a quick meal that’s perfect for spring gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Preheat your grill or broiler.
- Thread the marinated lamb and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between meat and veggies.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the lamb is cooked to your liking.
- Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce or a fresh salad.
Stuffed Lamb Loin with Spinach and Cheese
If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering, stuffed lamb loin with spinach and cheese is a fantastic choice. This dish combines tender lamb with a flavorful filling that bursts with savory goodness. The balance of spices, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach creates a delightful experience for your taste buds.
It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices. With just a few steps, you can have a stunning centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lamb loin
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by preparing the filling. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, sautéing until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix the cooled spinach with cream cheese, feta, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully butterfly the lamb loin by slicing it horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. Open it up and pound it gently to even the thickness.
- Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the lamb loin. Roll it tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Drizzle the rolled lamb with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place it in a baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with herbs if desired.
Lamb Bolognese with Pappardelle
Get ready for a hearty dish that brings a fresh twist to classic Bolognese! This Lamb Bolognese with Pappardelle is packed with rich flavors and a comforting texture. With tender lamb simmered in a savory tomato sauce, it’s a perfect meal that’s surprisingly easy to whip up on a weeknight or serve at a gathering.
The unique taste of lamb complements the broad pasta beautifully, creating a dish that feels both rustic and refined. It’s a delicious way to enjoy spring lamb while keeping your meal simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pappardelle pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Brown the Lamb: In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for about 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pappardelle according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pappardelle in the skillet with the Lamb Bolognese sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!
Roasted Lamb and Spring Vegetable Salad
This Roasted Lamb and Spring Vegetable Salad is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring. Tender roasted lamb pairs perfectly with fresh, colorful vegetables, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. The vibrant ingredients bring a burst of flavor, making it a great choice for a light lunch or dinner.
Not only is it delicious, but this recipe is quite simple to prepare. With just a few steps, you can impress your friends and family with a meal that feels gourmet. The combination of juicy lamb, crisp greens, and seasonal veggies will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the lamb with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary. Place it in a roasting pan.
- Roast the lamb for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion. Drizzle with lemon juice and balsamic vinegar, tossing to coat.
- Top the salad with sliced roasted lamb and serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
Lamb is more than just meat—it’s a canvas for creativity, a way to bring warmth and richness to springtime meals. These 13 recipes prove that with the right techniques and bold seasonings, every dish can feel like a celebration. Whether you’re craving classic comfort or adventurous global flavors, there’s something here to inspire your next culinary masterpiece. So pick a recipe, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the best of spring, one delicious bite at a time.
