Description
Grilled Lamb & Tomato Skewers
Impress your guests with these succulent lamb and tomato skewers—perfect with a glass of red wine!
Ingredients:
500g lamb pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes
4 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Marinate lamb cubes for 1–2 hours.
Thread lamb and tomatoes onto skewers.
Grill skewers over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes.
Pair with fresh parsley and a glass of wine for a complete meal.
What drink would you pair this with? Share your thoughts!
#WineAndDine
#LambLoversDream
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together 4 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 2 crushed garlic cloves, 1 tsp rosemary, and salt and pepper until fully emulsified.
2. Marinate the Lamb: Place 500g of lamb pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Soak Skewers & Prep: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Rinse 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and pat dry.
4. Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated lamb pieces and cherry tomatoes alternately onto the skewers, leaving a small space between items for even cooking.
5. Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness and has a nice char.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these skewers hot off the grill. For a complete meal, place them over a bed of fluffy couscous, lemon-herb quinoa, or a crisp green salad. A dollop of tzatziki or mint yogurt sauce on the side complements the lamb beautifully. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or mint. As suggested, a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah is the perfect pairing.
How-to Summary
Create a balsamic-rosemary marinade and coat lamb cubes for 1+ hours. Thread lamb and cherry tomatoes onto pre-soaked skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until beautifully charred and cooked through. Serve immediately with your chosen sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of lamb? Yes, leg of lamb cut into cubes works very well. Avoid overly fatty cuts that may cause flare-ups.
How can I tell when the lamb is done? The safest method is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 145°F (63°C). The lamb should be firm but slightly springy to the touch.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time? You can marinate the lamb and assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
What if I don’t have a grill? A grill pan on the stovetop or a broiler in your oven are excellent alternatives. Cook under a high broiler, turning once, for a similar effect.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Bell peppers, red onion chunks, and zucchini are great additions. Just ensure they are cut to a size that will cook at a similar rate to the lamb.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Soaking Wooden Skewers: This leads to burnt skewers and uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the Skewer: Packing items too tightly prevents heat circulation and results in steaming instead of grilling.
- Using High Heat Exclusively: While you want a good sear, excessively high heat can char the outside before the inside is cooked. Medium-high is ideal.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Let the skewers rest for 3-5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy lamb.
Conclusion
These Grilled Lamb & Tomato Skewers are a straightforward yet impressive dish that masterfully balances rich, herby lamb with the sweet acidity of tomatoes. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. They are the perfect centerpiece for a summer barbecue or an elegant dinner party, guaranteed to satisfy any lamb lover. Fire up the grill and enjoy this delicious, wine-friendly feast.
