15 Easter Lamb Recipes from Around the World (Traditional & Unique Ideas)

By ↣Published On: March 3rd, 2023↣Last Updated: March 15th, 2026↣

For many cultures around the world, Easter and lamb go hand in hand. From Mediterranean roasts and Middle Eastern kebabs to rich stews and fragrant curries, lamb takes on many forms depending on where you are.

If you’re planning an Easter feast and looking for inspiration, these Easter lamb recipes from around the world offer something a little different for your table.

A lamb chop with potatoes on a plate

Why do we eat Lamb at Easter?

Christianity plays a part in why many countries around the world eat lamb at Easter time. The lamb represents Christ, the Holy Lamb of God.

But in addition, as Easter falls during springtime, in the Northern Hemisphere, it also falls during lambing season which means an abundance of the finest meat. So, it's no surprise to see some of the tastiest, most treasured dishes resurface at this time each year. There's a cornucopia of flavour to enjoy with lamb - from classic roasts to richly spiced dishes from the Middle East and Asia, lamb is celebrated in many different ways around the world.

Here are 15 of my favourite lamb recipes from around the world – from classic roasts to richly spiced dishes.

A bowl of Italian pulled lamb with beans with a fork

Pulled Lamb with Nduja and Borlotti Beans

This Italian inspired pulled lamb is packed with so much flavour. Cooked low and slow with nduja sausage and borlotti beans, the lamb is meltingly tender and the sauce one of the most aromatic you’ll ever taste. It’s a miraculously delicious dish for sure!
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A platter of Zaatar Lamb chops with a side serving of Sumac Onion Salad

Zaatar Lamb

Zaatar Lamb is a wonderful pairing, make no mistake. Lamb is my favourite meat and I'm always searching for combinations that surprise and delight. This is such a simple way to serve the meat, alongside this celebrated Middle Eastern spice mix.
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A roasting tin holding a roast lamb leg. Potatoes sit in the juices from the lamb.

Roast Lamb with Anchovies and Garlic

For a burst of umami richness this juicy and fork-tender roast lamb is perfect. Flavoured with salty anchovies and fragrant garlic it's the perfect marriage with lamb. Lift your roast dinner to new heights with this tried and tested favourite.
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A combination of oil, lemon, garlic and fresh herbs create a simple marinade for Greek style lamb.

Greek Lamb Marinade

For a major upgrade in flavour, nothing works better than this Greek marinade for lamb. Masters of flavour, the Greeks keep it quick and easy and then let time do its magic.
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A serving of Saag Gosht in a copper pot with rice in the background and a large copper serving spoon sit on an antique silk carpet

Saag Gosht (Lamb & Spinach Curry)

Saag Gosht is a wonderful, rich and flavourful lamb curry, where juicy, tender lamb meets creamy spinach. The sauce is something special and the dish packed with flavour, fragrance and the most luxurious texture. 
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Jordanian Lamb Mansaf

The combination of rice, lamb, spice and nuts makes this Jordanian Lamb Mansaf a treasure across the Middle East.
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Italian Baked Lamb & Potatoes

Italian Baked Lamb & Potatoes

This dish for all its simplicity is phenomenal. So easy and so much flavour - to bring the most out lamb, try this baked wonder. It's a triumph.
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Kosha Mangsho (Bengali Lamb Curry) | cookeatworld.com

Kosha Mangsho (Bengali Lamb Curry)

Kosha Mangsho is an intensely flavourful curry from the Bengali region of India. A dry curry that has a complex melding of spices and fork tender lamb. Learn how to pack in the flavour with my simple recipe.
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Cypriot sheftalia on metal skewers on a platter

Cypriot Sheftalia (Pork & Lamb Sausages)

These juicy little morsels of meat are beyond perfect in every way. Meaty, flavourful and so packed with juices you won't believe. Caul fat is the key - learn all about this super-ingredient and why it makes sheftalia so successful!
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A bowl of pappardelle pasta with a lamb ragu sauce with a fork

Lamb Ragù with Pappardelle

To warm every corner of your soul you need this slow cooked lamb ragu, with meltingly tender pieces of meat. When stirred through fresh home made egg pasta with fresh pops of peas, it's other worldly! Learn how to make this slow cooked delight at home.
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Chinese Xinjiang Lamb Skewers on a platter

Chinese Xinjiang Lamb Skewers

All the spiced flavour of Northern China is found in the AMAZING lamb skewers. Juicy lamb is coated with cumin, chilli and more to create a truly unique flavour and texture.
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Middle Eastern Lamb Skewers on a platter

Middle Eastern Lamb Kebabs (Kabobs)

Juicy spiced lamb is one of the Middle East's most delicious exports. Learn how SIMPLE these tasty skewers are to create yourself at home.
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A large bowl of Moroccan Kefta (meatballs) tagine with a spoon.

Moroccan Kefta Tagine

Moroccan Kefta Tagine is a super easy and incredibly satisfying dish any day of the week. Tangy tomato sauce with fragrant lamb meatballs. An intoxicating, satisfying dinner or lunch. Learn how...
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Shantung Lamb Ribs

Shantung Lamb Ribs

Soft and crunchy lamb ribs with a delectable vinegar sauce. A truly delicious Chinese dish.
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Lebanese Lamb Marinade

Lebanese Lamb Marinade

Let time create all the magic and flavour you'll need with this simple Middle Eastern marinade, just perfect for lamb, beef or chicken. A little preparation now, pays off big-time later - get your marination going NOW!
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What to cook at Easter

Around the world there are many special Easter preparations, from delicious stews and soups, roasts and bakes all featuring lamb as the main ingredient. Depending which country we're in, lamb can take on so many flavours and cooking techniques.

Lamb is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with ingredients like rosemary, lemon, cumin, garlic, anchovies and chilli. Across the world, cooks have developed countless ways to bring out its rich flavour — from simple roasts to deeply spiced stews.

An illustration showing all the cuts of lamb that can be used.

The best cuts of lamb for different recipes

There are many beautiful cuts to enjoy. Some are more successful than others for specific recipes.

  • Stews & Curries - Cheek, Neck, Shoulder, Leg, Shank
  • Roasts - Leg and Ribs (Rack)
  • BBQ - Leg, Sirloin, Ribs (Rack), Flank,
  • Frying/grilling - Ribs (Rack), Loin, Sirloin, Flank & Breast
  • Other - Tongue for cold cuts, Ground lamb for burgers and kofta meatballs, Head for stews.

Side Dishes to Serve with Easter Lamb

If you’re planning a full Easter feast, lamb is just the beginning. Pair these dishes with vibrant spring salads, roasted vegetables and fresh breads for a memorable celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is lamb eaten at Easter?

For many Christian cultures, lamb symbolises Christ, the “Lamb of God”. Easter also falls during spring lambing season in the Northern Hemisphere.

What cut of lamb is best for Easter?

Leg of lamb is the most traditional Easter roast, but shoulder, rack and lamb chops are also popular.

What sides go well with Easter lamb?

Roasted potatoes, spring vegetables, salads, flatbreads and rice dishes all pair beautifully with lamb.