If you’re planning on serving a leg of lamb for your next special dinner party, you’ll want to make sure that you have some delicious and complementary side dishes to go with it. Not only will these dishes enhance the flavor of the lamb, but they will also add variety to your meal and make it more satisfying. In this article, we’ll be discussing 15 of the best side dishes for leg of lamb, along with general details on how to prepare them.
List of 15 Best Side Dishes for Leg Lamb
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables is an excellent way to add depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to your leg of lamb meal. You can use any combination of vegetables that you like, but some of the most popular options include potatoes, carrots, onions, and bell peppers. Simply cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss them in olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices that you prefer. Roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
Minted Pea Puree
Minted pea puree is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with the leg of lamb. It’s creamy, flavorful, and has just the right amount of sweetness. To make the puree, simply boil some fresh or frozen peas until tender, drain, and blend them in a food processor with some fresh mint leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs well with leg of lamb. It’s easy to prepare and takes only a few minutes on the grill to cook. Simply toss the asparagus in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill over medium-high heat until tender and lightly charred.
Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a French vegetable stew that is packed with flavor and pairs well with the rich taste of leg of lamb. The dish is typically made with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, but you can customize it to your liking. Simply chop the vegetables into small pieces, sauté them in a large pot with olive oil and garlic until tender, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta is a comforting and satisfying side dish that is perfect for pairing with leg of lamb. To make the polenta, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil, and slowly whisk in cornmeal until the mixture thickens. Stir in some grated parmesan cheese, butter, and salt, and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with almost any meat dish, including leg of lamb. Simply boil some peeled and cubed potatoes until tender, and mash them with butter, milk, and roasted garlic cloves until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Fennel and Orange Salad
A fresh and zesty salad is a great way to balance out the rich flavor of leg of lamb. Fennel and orange salad is a refreshing and tangy option that is easy to prepare. Simply slice some fresh fennel and oranges thinly, and toss them together with some chopped mint, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
Roasted Garlic Mushrooms
Roasted garlic mushrooms are a savory and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the earthy flavor of leg of lamb. Simply toss some sliced mushrooms with olive oil, salt, pepper, and roasted garlic cloves, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots are a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with the sweetness of the leg of lamb. To make the glaze, combine honey, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon in a small saucepan, and heat until melted and combined. Toss some peeled and sliced carrots in the glaze, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Braised Red Cabbage
Braised red cabbage is a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the rich and savory taste of leg of lamb. Simply slice some red cabbage thinly, sauté it in a large pot with butter and onions until tender, and add in some apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cover and simmer until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Greek Salad
A Greek salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish that complements the richness of the leg of lamb. To make the salad, simply chop some fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers, and toss them together with some olives, feta cheese, and a simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
Herbed Couscous
Herbed couscous is a light and fluffy side dish that pairs well with the flavorful taste of leg of lamb. To make the couscous, simply boil some chicken or vegetable broth, add in some couscous, and let it cook until fluffy. Toss in some chopped herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sauteed Spinach
Sauteed spinach is a simple and nutritious side dish that pairs well with the richness of leg of lamb. Simply sauté some fresh spinach in a pan with olive oil and garlic until wilted, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Grilled Eggplant
Grilled eggplant is a smoky and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the savory taste of leg of lamb. Simply slice some eggplant into rounds, brush with olive oil, and grill over medium-high heat until tender and lightly charred. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or thyme.
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a decadent and creamy side dish that pairs well with the rich taste of leg of lamb. To make the dish, simply layer thinly sliced potatoes in a baking dish with cream, butter, and cheese, and bake in the oven until tender and golden brown.
Conclusion
When it comes to pairing side dishes with leg of lamb, the possibilities are endless. From roasted vegetables to creamy polenta, there are countless options to choose from depending on your taste preferences and cooking skills. By incorporating some of these side dishes into your next leg of lamb meal, you’re sure to impress your guests and create a truly memorable dining experience.
