Ingredients
Scale
For the Lamb Marinade:
- 2 lamb tenderloins (about 1–1.5 pounds total)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh mint, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Extra rosemary sprigs
Ingredient Highlights
- Lamb Tenderloin: This cut is incredibly tender and mild in flavor compared to other lamb cuts like leg or shoulder. It absorbs flavors well and remains juicy when grilled.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to bind the marinade ingredients and adds richness to the lamb.
- Garlic and Fresh Herbs: The combination of garlic, rosemary, and thyme brings out the natural flavors of the lamb, creating a mouthwatering aroma as it grills.
- Cumin and Coriander: These spices provide depth, giving the lamb a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Paprika and Cinnamon: A touch of paprika adds smokiness, while cinnamon imparts a subtle sweetness to balance the savory lamb.
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- Combine the Marinade Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add honey if you prefer a subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
- Marinate the Lamb: Place the lamb tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the lamb and rub it in, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to fully infuse into the lamb.
Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn down to a medium heat before placing the lamb on the grill.
- Oil the Grill Grates: Use a paper towel dipped in oil to lightly grease the grill grates. This will help prevent the lamb from sticking.
Grill the Lamb:
- Grill the Lamb: Remove the lamb tenderloins from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the lamb on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 8-10 minutes per side for medium, depending on the thickness of the tenderloin.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure the lamb is cooked to your desired level, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
- Rest the Lamb: After removing the lamb from the grill, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure the meat stays moist and tender.
Slice and Serve:
- Slice the Lamb: Using a sharp knife, slice the lamb tenderloin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Serve: Arrange the lamb slices on a platter and garnish with fresh mint, lemon wedges, and extra rosemary sprigs, if desired. Serve with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 30g