Name: Grilled Lamb Kabobs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Leg of lamb (Trimmed and cut into pieces 1 1/2 inches square.); 1 large Red onion (Cut into pieces 1 1/2 inches wide.); 2 small Zucchini (Cut into thin pieces about the same size as the meat.)

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Grilled Lamb Kabobs have a special place in my heart, especially during those warm summer evenings. The scent of meat sizzling on the grill brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and stories are shared over delicious food. I remember the first time I made kabobs; I was nervous but excited. The vibrant colors of the vegetables, the tender chunks of lamb, and the smoky aroma filled my backyard, making everyone eager for dinner. There’s something about grilling that makes food taste better, and kabobs are the perfect way to enjoy this cooking method. Juicy, marinated lamb paired with fresh zucchini and onions makes for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and even better to eat. Plus, they are perfect for friends and family to gather around as they wait for those skewers to come off the grill.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Peeler, Whisk

These kabobs not only look beautiful on the plate, but they also pack a punch in flavor and texture. The sweetness of the grilled onions, paired with the slight crunch of the zucchini, complements the rich taste of the lamb. Each bite is an explosion of tastes that can transport you to a summer barbecue, no matter the season. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Grilled Lamb Kabobs are versatile enough to fit any occasion. I can’t wait to share how to make them, and I hope you love them as much as I do!

Why You Need This Grilled Lamb Kabobs

Flavorful Marinade

The marinade for these Grilled Lamb Kabobs is a game changer. By combining spices like oregano, cumin, and paprika with lemon juice and olive oil, you create a depth of flavor that enhances the natural taste of the lamb. Marinating the meat is essential for a juicy and tender result.

Easy to Make

One of the best parts about kabobs is how simple they are to prepare. You can cut your veggies and meat ahead of time and let them soak in the marinade, making it easy to throw everything on the grill right before dinner. This means less stress when entertaining!

Perfect for Summer Grilling

Summer is all about grilling, and these kabobs are a fantastic way to enjoy the season. Their design allows for even cooking, and they make a great presentation at any gathering. Plus, they can be easily customized to include your favorite meats and vegetables.

Fun for Everyone

These kabobs are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Everyone loves to skewer their own meat and veggies, making it an interactive activity that brings people together. It’s a great way to engage kids and adults alike in the cooking process.

Healthy Option

With all the fresh ingredients, Grilled Lamb Kabobs are a healthy dinner option. Packed with protein from the lamb and vitamins from the vegetables, you can feel good about serving this dish. It’s a balanced meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

What to Buy for Grilled Lamb Kabobs

Choosing high-quality ingredients is crucial for these kabobs. The combination of fresh vegetables and marinated lamb creates a dish that is not only delicious but also vibrant and nutritious. The key players in this recipe are the lamb, which forms the heart of the dish, and the vegetables, which provide essential flavors and textures. Together, they create a stellar meal that will impress everyone.

2 lbs. leg of lamb, trimmed and cut into pieces 1 1/2 inches square: Lamb is a tender meat that is perfect for grilling. Choosing a leg of lamb ensures you get juicy pieces that are full of flavor, especially after marinating.
1 large red onion, cut into pieces 1 1/2 inches wide: The sweetness of grilled onions enhances the taste of the lamb, making them a perfect pairing.
2 small zucchini, cut into thin pieces about the same size as the meat: Zucchini adds a nice crunch and absorbs the marinade flavors beautifully.

Step by Step Instructions for Grilled Lamb Kabobs

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get grilling! The instructions are straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a fun cooking experience. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious Grilled Lamb Kabobs ready in no time.

Start by trimming some but not all the fat from the lamb. It’s essential to leave some fat for flavor and moisture. Cut the lamb into cubes about 1 1/2 inches square.
In a bowl, whisk together onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, ground rosemary, ground cumin, paprika, black pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil to create a flavorful marinade. This mixture will enhance the taste of your lamb significantly.
Place the lamb cubes into a Ziploc bag, pour the marinade over them, and seal the bag. Massage the marinade into the lamb and let it marinate in the fridge for several hours or overnight. This step is crucial for maximum flavor.
When you’re ready to cook, drain the marinated lamb cubes in a colander and let them come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking on the grill.
In the meantime, preheat your grill to high heat. If you’d like, you can spray it with non-stick grill spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare your veggies by cutting the ends off the zucchini and peeling the red onions. Cut both into pieces about 1 1/2 inches wide, similar in size to the lamb cubes.
Now it’s time to thread the skewers! Begin by placing a piece of lamb onto the skewer, followed by a piece of zucchini and a piece of red onion. Repeat until the skewer is filled, leaving some space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Brush the assembled kabobs on all sides with olive oil. This will help them achieve a nice grill mark and prevent sticking.
Place the skewers on the grill. Immediately lower the temperature to medium-high. Grill the kabobs for about 8 to 12 minutes, turning them every 3 minutes. Look for nice grill marks, which indicate they are cooking well.
Using an instant-read meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the lamb. For medium rare, aim for 145F/65C; for medium, it should be 160F/70C; and for well-done, it should reach 170F/75C.
When done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, and consider pairing them with low-carb pita bread and Tzatziki sauce if desired.

Things Worth Knowing

Marination Time: Marinating the lamb is essential for flavor. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your kabobs will be.
Grill Temperature: Start hot and then reduce the heat for even cooking. This technique allows for a nice sear without burning.
Meat Thermometer: Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer; it’s the best way to ensure your lamb is cooked perfectly.
Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Ways to Customize

If you want to make your Grilled Lamb Kabobs even more exciting, here are some great customization tips. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Vegetable Varieties: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added color and flavor.
Different Meats: Try substituting chicken or beef for the lamb if you prefer. Each will bring a unique taste to the kabobs.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herbs Galore: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to give your kabobs a fresh twist.
Serving Options: Serve your kabobs over a bed of quinoa or rice for a heartier meal.
Experiment with Sauces: Try different dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, hot sauce, or chimichurri for added flavor.

What to Serve Alongside Grilled Lamb Kabobs

When it comes to serving Grilled Lamb Kabobs, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic side dishes and pairings to consider:

Grilled Vegetables: Pair your kabobs with other grilled vegetables like corn on the cob or asparagus for a colorful and healthy plate.
Salads: A light Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese complements the flavors of the kabobs beautifully.
Rice or Couscous: Serve your kabobs over fluffy rice or couscous, allowing the marinade juices to soak in.
Dips and Sauces: Tzatziki sauce is a classic choice, but you could also serve homemade hummus or tzatziki for a creamy addition.
Bread: Flatbreads or pita breads are great for wrapping around the skewers, making for an easy-to-eat meal.
Occasions: These kabobs are perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage: Leftover kabobs can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated for quick meals.

FAQ

Absolutely! While lamb is traditional, you can easily substitute it with chicken or beef. Just be aware that different meats may require slight adjustments in marination time and cooking temperature. For example, chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165F/74C. Feel free to experiment!

The best way to marinate lamb is to use a combination of acidic ingredients like lemon juice, along with various spices and herbs. This not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it. Aim to marinate for at least a few hours, but overnight yields the best results. Make sure to keep the marinating lamb in the refrigerator for food safety.

The best way to know if your kabobs are done is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium rare, cook to 145F/65C; for medium, aim for 160F/70C; and for well done, go for 170F/75C. This ensures that your meat is safe to eat while still being juicy and tender.

Grilled kabobs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a refreshing salad, grilled vegetables, or even some fluffy rice or couscous. Don’t forget to include delicious dips like Tzatziki sauce or homemade hummus. These pairings enhance the meal and make it even more enjoyable!

Conclusion

Grilled Lamb Kabobs are truly a delightful dish that brings together the wonderful flavors of marinated lamb and fresh vegetables. They are perfect for any gathering or a simple family dinner, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while cooking. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. The experience of grilling and savoring these kabobs is something you won’t want to miss!