Grilled Greek Lamb Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing
The Grilled Greek Lamb Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing offers a delightful combination of marinated lamb, fresh vegetables, and aromatic dressing, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious meal. This dish celebrates the rich flavors of Greek cuisine, featuring tender grilled lamb served over a base of couscous or rice and adorned with fresh vegetables and feta cheese. Topped with a zesty lemon-oregano dressing, it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by family and friends alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Grilled Greek Lamb Bowl is a versatile recipe that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The marinated lamb is rich in protein and flavor, while the vegetables provide crunch and freshness. The meal is customizable; you can substitute the base with your preference—couscous or rice—and adjust the toppings based on what you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy options ready throughout the week.
Ingredients
Before you dive into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:
For the Lamb:
- 1 lb boneless lamb leg or loin, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked couscous or rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Lemon-Oregano Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Step 1: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed lamb, tossing to coat evenly in the marinade. For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but feel free to let it sit for up to 4 hours in the fridge to enhance the flavors.
Step 2: While the lamb is marinating, prepare your base by cooking couscous or rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Next, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Set these aside, as they will create a colorful and nutritious topping for your bowl.
Step 4: Now, prepare the lemon-oregano dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
Step 5: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto skewers or place them directly in a grill pan. Grill the lamb for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute.
Step 6: To assemble the bowls, start with a base of couscous or rice, then top with grilled lamb, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the lemon-oregano dressing and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lamb with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the marination time and cooking time based on the type of protein you choose.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the meat.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lamb and marinate it the night before, and also pre-chop the vegetables for easy assembly when you are ready to serve.
Is there a gluten-free option for the base?
Sure! You can replace couscous or rice with quinoa, or use gluten-free rice or cauliflower rice as a low-carb option.
What are some variations I can try?
Feel free to customize your bowl by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or various herbs such as mint for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Grilled Greek Lamb Bowl with Lemon-Oregano Dressing is a nutritious and vibrant meal that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean. With its combination of juicy grilled lamb and fresh vegetables, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this dish will surely impress your guests and family alike.
