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Flavorful Zesty Grilled Lamb Kebabs Recipe Perfect for Easy Summer BBQs

zesty grilled lamb kebabs - featured image

These zesty grilled lamb kebabs feature preserved lemon in the marinade for a bright, tangy flavor that balances the rich lamb. Perfect for quick, easy summer BBQs with a gourmet twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds lamb leg or shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 preserved lemons, rinsed and finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Warm pita bread or flatbread (optional, for serving)
  • Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce (optional, for serving)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining finely chopped preserved lemons, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium heat (around 375–400°F). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  4. Thread the lamb cubes onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces. Discard excess marinade.
  5. Grill the kebabs for 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully, for a total of 12-15 minutes for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for 135°F internal temperature.
  6. Remove kebabs from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with warm pita, Greek yogurt or tzatziki, and lemon wedges.

Notes

Do not over-marinate the lamb to avoid mushy texture; 1-2 hours max is ideal. Take lamb out of fridge 20 minutes before grilling for even cooking. Use tongs to turn kebabs to keep juices inside. Let meat rest after grilling to retain moisture. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Preserved lemons add a unique tang; if unavailable, substitute with lemon zest and a pinch of salt.

Nutrition

Keywords: lamb kebabs, grilled lamb, preserved lemon, summer BBQ, easy kebabs, Mediterranean grilling, zesty lamb, quick lamb recipe