Easter in Umbria: a barbecue celebration with grilled lamb and mint
In the heart of Umbria, Easter is more than just a religious holiday—it’s a celebration of rebirth, nature, and community. With the countryside in full bloom, families gather under the spring sun to share traditional meals, often around a smoky, aromatic barbecue.
One of the stars of the Umbrian Easter table is grilled lamb, marinated with local herbs and served with a refreshing mint sauce. This dish brings together the deep-rooted culinary customs of the region with the joyful ambiance of outdoor cooking—a true sagra in casa.
The tradition of Easter in Umbria
Umbrian Easter traditions are deeply connected to the land and its rhythms. After Lent, a season of simplicity and reflection, Easter Sunday explodes with flavor. Tables are filled with rustic torte di Pasqua, hard-boiled eggs, pecorino cheese, and above all, lamb—symbolizing new life.
Cooking lamb on the grill is a custom embraced by many Umbrian families. It allows for communal preparation, lively conversation, and, of course, a few glasses of local red wine to enhance the experience.
The recipe: grilled lamb chops with mint marinade
This recipe respects the authenticity of Umbrian flavors while adding a fresh twist through mint. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a spring celebration.
Ingredients (serves 4):
- 8 lamb chops
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preparation:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the lamb and let it marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is ideal).
- Prepare your grill for medium-high heat.
- Grill the lamb chops 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
- Garnish with fresh mint before serving.
The Umbrian touch
What makes this dish unmistakably Umbrian is the use of local lamb, often sourced from nearby farms, and extra virgin olive oil produced right in the region. Served alongside roasted seasonal vegetables or a rustic farro salad, this meal captures the essence of Umbrian hospitality.
A celebration of simplicity and flavor
Whether you’re hosting Easter in the hills of Umbria or recreating the moment in your own garden, this grilled lamb recipe brings authenticity and warmth to the table. It’s a dish to be shared, enjoyed slowly, and remembered fondly—just like any true Italian feast.
Buona Pasqua x
