Experience the exquisite flavors of the Mediterranean with our Mediterranean Elegance Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce. This dish showcases perfectly grilled lamb chops, known for their tenderness and rich flavor, accompanied by a refreshing and aromatic mint sauce. It's a sophisticated yet simple meal, ideal for a special occasion or an elegant dinner at home.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Servings and Serving Size
- Yields 4 servings
- Serving Size: 2 lamb chops
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Ingredients
- Lamb chops - 8 (about 2 pounds)
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves, minced - 3
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Mint Sauce:
- Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped - ½ cup
- Sugar - 1 tablespoon
- Apple cider vinegar - 3 tablespoons
- Boiling water - 2 tablespoons
- Salt to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Coat the lamb chops with the marinade and let them sit for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Mint Sauce: In another bowl, dissolve sugar in boiling water. Add apple cider vinegar, chopped mint leaves, and salt. Stir well and set aside.
- Grill the Lamb Chops: Preheat the grill to high heat. Grill the lamb chops for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- Rest the Lamb: Allow the lamb chops to rest for a few minutes after grilling.
- Serve: Plate the lamb chops and drizzle them with the mint sauce.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure the lamb chops are at room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
- Don't move the chops too much while grilling to get a good sear.
- Adjust the grilling time based on the thickness of the chops and your preferred doneness.
- The mint sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
How do I store leftover mint sauce?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I make this dish in a skillet?
Yes, you can pan-sear the lamb chops in a hot skillet if grilling is not an option.
Your Mediterranean Elegance Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce are ready to enchant your palate. This dish, with its harmonious blend of rich lamb and zesty mint, brings a touch of Mediterranean sophistication to your table. Enjoy the celebration of flavors, and let each bite transport you to a world of culinary delight!