Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further than these delightful Greek-style lamb chops! This easy recipe delivers tender, juicy lamb infused with the bright, herbaceous flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
Instructions:
Preparing the Lamb Chops:
- Pat the lamb chops dry: This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of each chop.
- Marinate the lamb (optional): For maximum flavor, marinate the lamb chops for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, in a mixture of olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step is optional but highly recommended!
Cooking the Lamb Chops:
- Preheat your pan: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot pan.
- Sear the lamb chops: Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the lamb chops in the hot pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a beautiful brown crust.
- Reduce the heat and cook to desired doneness: Lower the heat to medium, and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy; 130-135°F is ideal for medium-rare.
- Rest the lamb: Once cooked, remove the lamb chops from the pan and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Making the Finishing Sauce:
- Deglaze the pan: While the lamb rests, pour the lemon juice into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the lemon juice to a simmer, scraping up any remaining bits from the pan. The sauce should slightly thicken.
- Stir in herbs: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and mint.
Serving:
Spoon the delicious lemon-herb sauce over the rested lamb chops. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Lamb Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the lamb chops to allow for proper searing. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your lamb chops are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Let the lamb rest: Resist the urge to serve the lamb immediately. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a much more tender and flavorful chop.
Variations:
- Add some vegetables: Roast some vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers alongside the lamb chops for a complete meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like rosemary or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This Greek-style lamb chop recipe is a fantastic example of delicious, healthy meals that are also easy to prepare. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, demonstrating the ease and satisfaction of homemade cooking. Enjoy this best recipe and experiment with different flavors to make it your own!