How to Make the Perfect Roasted Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Mediterranean · Medium · 35 min · 4 servings
Juicy bone-in lamb chops seasoned with garlic and herbs then roasted to a perfect medium and served with a vibrant fresh mint pesto. This elegant dish comes together quickly and impresses at any dinner table.
Why this recipe works
This Roasted Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 35 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 480 calories with 42g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 9 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 8 pieces bone-in lamb loin chops
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves packed
- 0.25 cup pine nuts
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Season the Lamb
Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
Step 2: Make the Mint Pesto
Combine fresh mint leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse while slowly drizzling in the olive oil until a smooth but slightly textured sauce forms. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 3: Sear the Chops
Heat an oven-safe skillet over high heat until smoking. Sear the lamb chops for 2 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. Do not crowd the pan or the meat will steam instead of sear.
Step 4: Finish in the Oven
Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400F oven and roast for 6 to 8 minutes for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 135F for medium.
Step 5: Rest and Plate
Remove the lamb chops from the oven and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Plate the chops and spoon a generous dollop of mint pesto over each one before serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- pine nuts → walnuts or blanched almonds
- Parmesan cheese → Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor
- lamb loin chops → rack of lamb cut into individual chops
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the resting period which causes the juices to run out when cut
- Not patting the lamb dry before searing which prevents a proper crust from forming
- Overcooking the lamb past medium which makes it tough and gamey
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 480 calories, 42g protein, 4g carbs, 31g fat, 1g fiber.
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