GOODNESS
Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!

Rosemary: This piney herb adds great flavor to many meats, but the surprise is how good it is for you. It has anti-inflammatory chemicals, making it useful in the treatment of liver and heart disease as well as asthma. It seems to have some potent anti-tumor properties and has been researched for its use against breast, colon and skin cancer. Although still being researched, it may be a useful tonic for the brain and has been used since ancient times as a memory enhancer. Although it is just fine in foods, you should avoid strong tinctures of rosemary if you are pregnant.

Thyme: This aromatic herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and contains thymol, a well-known antiseptic (you might be gargling with it). It's good for the digestion and is supposed to have some aphrodisiac qualities, although that just may be be due to the well-known connection between love and good food.
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Recipe

Grilled Lamb Sandwiches with Grilled Green Onions

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 46

ingredients

  • 1 4.5 pounds butterflied boned leg of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried savory
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
  • 5 bunches green onions, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 French-bread baguettes, each cut crosswise into 5 4- to 4.5 inch pieces
  • Aioli
  • Red Bell Pepper Sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups purchased tapenade

directions

Using sharp knife, cut 0.5 inch slits all over lamb. Insert garlic slices into slits. Sprinkle lamb with salt and pepper, then herbs, pressing herbs to adhere. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.)

Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Place green onions in large roasting pan. Drizzle 1/4 cup oil over onions, toss to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cut baguette pieces horizontally in half. Brush cut sides of bread with remaining 3 tablespoons oil.

Grill lamb until meat thermometer inserted into thickest part registers 135 degrees. for medium-rare, turning occasionally, about 30 minutes. Transfer to platter and tent with foil. Let stand 10 minutes. Working in batches, arrange green onions in single layer on grill. Grill until beginning to brown, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to cutting board. Grill baguettes, cut side down, until golden brown, about 2 minutes.

Chop onions. Place in bowl. Cut lamb diagonally into thin slices. Serve with green onions, baguette pieces, Aioli, Red Bell Pepper Sauce and tapenade.