Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto

🍽 Serves: 4⏱ Prep Time: 15 min🕒 Marinate Time: 1–2 hrs. (optional but ideal) 🔥

Cook Time: 8–10 min

🛒 Ingredients

🐑 For the Lamb Chops:

• 8 lamb rib chops (about 1" thick)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

🌿 For the Mint Pesto:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves (packed)

• ½ cup fresh parsley leaves

• ⅓ cup toasted pine nuts or almonds

• ½ cup grated Parmesan (or Pecorino)

• 1 garlic clove

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• ½ cup olive oil (more as needed)

• Salt and pepper to taste

  

🍴 Instructions

1. Marinate the Lamb Chops (optional but enhances flavor):

• In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

• Rub the mixture all over the lamb chops.

• Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or let sit at room temp for 30 mins if short on time).

2. Make the Mint Pesto:

• In a food processor or blender, combine mint, parsley, nuts, cheese, garlic, and lemon juice.

• Pulse to combine, then slowly stream in olive oil until smooth but still textured.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Grill the Lamb Chops:

• Preheat grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.

• Remove lamb chops from marinade and let excess drip off.

• Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp ~130°F), or longer for desired doneness.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

4. Serve:

• Plate lamb chops and spoon mint pesto over the top or serve on the side.

• Optional garnish: extra mint leaves or lemon wedges.

🍽 Suggested Sides:

• Roasted Beet & Feta Salad: Toss roasted beets with arugula, feta crumbles, walnuts, and balsamic vinaigrette.

• Grilled Peaches: Halve and grill fresh peaches; drizzle with honey and add a sprinkle of sea salt or goat cheese.

🍷 Wine Pairing:

Serve with a Syrah, Malbec, or Cabernet Franc to complement the richness of the lamb and the brightness of the mint.