Indulge in the bold, rustic flavors of the Mediterranean with this 'Mediterranean Diet Crispy Roast Duck Leg' recipe, a mouthwatering dish that combines perfectly seasoned duck legs with the wholesome ingredients of the Mediterranean pantry. Each duck leg is rubbed with aromatic garlic, zesty lemon, and earthy herbs like rosemary and thyme, then slow-roasted to develop irresistibly crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Fennel seeds and a light brushing of red wine vinegar in the final moments of cooking elevate the flavor with a hint of warmth and tang. This elegant yet approachable recipe is ideal for a special dinner or a Mediterranean-inspired meal, served alongside vibrant roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. Perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor, this dish is a must-try for both duck lovers and Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the duck legs dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve crispier skin.
Rub each duck leg with olive oil, ensuring an even coating.
In a small bowl, mix together the sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and fennel seeds.
Rub the spice mixture thoroughly over each duck leg, making sure to cover all surfaces.
Place the seasoned duck legs on a wire rack set over a baking tray to allow the heat to circulate evenly during cooking.
Roast in the preheated oven for 75–90 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the leg.
In the last 10 minutes of roasting, brush the duck legs with red wine vinegar to enhance the crispiness and add a subtle tang.
Remove from the oven and let the duck legs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve with a fresh side salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. Enjoy!
Calories |
1957 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 170.1 g | 218% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.6 g | 263% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 420 mg | 140% | |
| Sodium | 2644 mg | 115% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 6.7 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.2 g | ||
| Protein | 96.1 g | 192% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 149 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 15.4 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 1135 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.