What Herbs Go Well with Lamb?

Rosemary, thyme, mint, oregano, and garlic all pair deliciously with lamb. These herbs are considered classic for their ability to complement lamb perfectly, whether grilled, roasted, baked, seared, or barbecued.

So, if you’re looking to make a delicious lamb recipe, those are the herbs to experiment with. And yes, you can use them fresh or dried, depending on your preference, seasonal availability, and cooking method.

Guide to Cuts of Lamb: Lamb Chops vs Rack of Lamb

Best Herbs for Lamb (and How to Use Them)

All of the herbs listed below can be rubbed directly onto the lamb, or set in a pan for searing or roasting.

Rosemary

This herb is my go-to for red meats, and lamb is no exception. Rosemary is bold, savory, and piney, but rarely overpowering, while still being able to stand up against rich red meats. This makes it ideal for lamb.
Use it in: Marinades, rubs, or right in roasting pans with garlic and olive oil.

Thyme

Another go-to. Thyme is great for layering with other flavors since it’s earthy but subtle, and rarely overpowering.
Use it in: Roasting, in stews, braising, or mixed with lemon zest for grilling. It can also be used in marinades and rubs.

Mint

Bright and cooling, mint contrasts beautifully with lamb’s savory, gamey depth.
Use it in: Traditionally, for lamb, mint features in yogurt sauces and tzatziki, but can also be used in marinades, or freshly chopped as a finishing herb. That said, remember that a little mint goes a long way, as it can very quickly become overpowering - and nobody wants a lamb dish where all you taste is mint.

Oregano

Fresh oregano is robust and powerful, with a nice peppery undertone. Dried oregano is much more subtle, bringing savory, earthy depth. Whether fresh or dried, nothing brings on the Mediterranean flair quite like some oregano. That said, I almost always recommend opting for dried - unless a recipe specifically calls for fresh (which is rare).
Use it in: Greek-style lamb dishes, rubs, or combined with garlic and lemon.

Garlic (honorary herb)

Not technically an herb, but garlic is essential with lamb, especially for bringing out aromatic depth.
Use it: Everywhere, and on almost everything. Rubs, marinades, stews, rack of lamb roasts. No matter what, if it's lamb, add in some garlic.

Bonus Herbs to Try:

Parsley: For freshness and color, especially as a finishing herb.
Basil: Best used in summer-themed Mediterranean lamb recipes.
Cilantro: Pairs especially well in spiced lamb recipes, especially in Spanish and Middle Eastern cuisine.

And that’s our answer to what herbs pair well with lamb!

Happy Cooking!