Herb-Marinated Roasted Pork Leg
Meats

Herb-Marinated Roasted Pork Leg

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 27, 2026

A show-stopping roasted pork leg marinated overnight in garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, then slow-roasted to juicy, golden perfection. This crowd-pleasing centerpiece is ideal for family gatherings and holiday feasts. The overnight marinade is the key to deeply flavorful, tender meat.

Prep⏱️ 150 min
Servings👥 16 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

16 servings

16
  • 1 pork leg (4 kg / approx. 9 lbs)
  • 1 whole head of garlic
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 3 lemons
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes
  • 500 ml warm water
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Salt to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    The day before roasting, use a sharp knife to pierce the pork leg all over, creating small deep holes to let the marinade penetrate.

  2. 2

    Dissolve the 2 beef bouillon cubes in 500 ml of warm water and set aside to cool.

  3. 3

    Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with salt using a garlic press or mortar. Add lemon juice, black pepper, and oregano, then mix everything into the cooled bouillon.

  4. 4

    Place the pork leg in a large roasting dish. Pour the marinade over it, then scatter the chopped onion and parsley on top.

  5. 5

    Using your fingers, push garlic and onion pieces into the holes in the meat so the flavors infuse deeply.

  6. 6

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.

  7. 7

    The next day, preheat your oven to 220 °C (425 °F). Wrap the pork leg tightly in aluminum foil with the marinade.

  8. 8

    Roast for 2 hours, then uncover and roast for an additional 30 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.

  9. 9

    Rest the meat for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the pan juices.

💡 Chef's Tip

For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of dry white wine or apple cider to the marinade. This recipe works brilliantly on a charcoal grill using indirect heat — the smoky crust is irresistible.