Simple And Flavorful: Greek Dinner Party Recipes

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Imagine this: a warm summer evening, the scent of roasted lamb mingling with the tangy aroma of tzatziki. A table laden with vibrant dishes, each a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Greece. This is the inspiration behind our latest creation, a dish that pays homage to the bold flavors and simple elegance of Greek cuisine.

Ingredients:

1.5 kg boneless lamb shoulder, trimmed

  • 2 lemons, juiced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large red onion, quartered
  • 4 carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 potatoes, quartered
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

    • Easy Greek Dinner Party Menu
    Easy Greek Dinner Party Menu

    Image Source: squarespace-cdn.com

    Preparation:

    1. Marinate the Lamb: In a large bowl, combine the lamb, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
    2. Roast the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large roasting pan, toss the onion, carrots, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
    3. Sear the Lamb: Remove the lamb from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and sear on all sides until browned.
    4. Combine and Simmer: Transfer the seared lamb to the roasting pan with the vegetables. Pour the reserved marinade, white wine, and vegetable broth over the lamb and vegetables. Cover the pan with foil and braise in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls off the bone.
    5. Serve: Remove the lamb and vegetables from the braising liquid. Skim any excess fat from the liquid and bring it to a boil to reduce and thicken the sauce. Serve the lamb and vegetables over rice or couscous, drizzled with the reduced sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.

    Total Time: Approximately 4-5 hours, including marinating time.

    Serving Ideas:

    Greek Salad: A classic pairing, a crisp Greek salad with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

  • Tzatziki: A cooling and refreshing dip made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and herbs.
  • Pita bread: Warm pita bread to scoop up the delicious sauce and tender meat.

    • This dish is a celebration of Greek culinary traditions, drawing inspiration from the flavors of the Mediterranean. The rich, savory lamb, the vibrant vegetables, and the aromatic herbs and spices come together to create a truly unforgettable meal. It’s a dish that nourishes the body and soul, transporting you to the sun-drenched islands of Greece.