Charred Tomato and Cumin-Spiced Lamb Skewers

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-03 · Updated 2026-07-03

Tender lamb pieces marinated in warm cumin and garlic, grilled over high heat with charred tomatoes for a smoky finish. This mediterranean-inspired bbq & smoked ready in about 82 minutes pairs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes, ground cumin, garlic cloves, minced for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 12 cherry tomatoes
• 4 wooden skewers, soaked

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1 lb lamb shoulder cubes, 2 tsp ground cumin, 3 minced garlic cloves, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix well and marinate covered in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. Step 2: Preheat grill or grill pan on high heat. Thread lamb cubes alternating with 12 cherry tomatoes onto 4 soaked wooden skewers.
3. Step 3: Grill the skewers over high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until lamb is nicely charred and tomatoes blistered and softened.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.