Description
Succulent herb-encrusted lamb chops promise an exquisite culinary journey through Mediterranean flavors. Fragrant rosemary, thyme, and garlic meld seamlessly, inviting you to savor each tender, perfectly seasoned bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 pounds (908 g) lamb chops, cut ¾” thick, 4 pieces
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons chopped rosemary
- 2 teaspoons chopped thyme
- ½ teaspoon chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon (10 g) minced garlic
- Kosher salt, for seasoning
- Black pepper, for seasoning
Cooking Liquid:
- ¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Craft a fragrant herb marinade by finely mincing fresh garlic, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Mix these aromatic herbs with of olive oil to create a vibrant paste.
- Generously season lamb chops with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both surfaces, ensuring even coverage.
- Massage the herb-infused oil mixture thoroughly into the meat, coating every crevice and surface with the aromatic blend.
- Allow lamb chops to rest and absorb marinade flavors at room temperature for 30 minutes, enabling deeper herb penetration.
- Preheat a 12-inch (30.5 centimeters) cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding of olive oil to create an optimal searing environment.
- Carefully place marinated lamb chops into the hot skillet, listening for the satisfying sizzle that indicates proper heat contact.
- Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes, developing a rich, golden-brown crust that locks in succulent juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, aiming for 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare or 135°F (57°C) for medium doneness.
- Remove lamb chops from heat and let them rest undisturbed for 10 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness.
Notes
- Marinating is crucial for infusing rich herbal flavors deep into the lamb, ensuring a more tender and aromatic result.
- Select fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley to create an intensely flavorful herb paste that elevates the meat’s natural taste.
- Cast iron skillet delivers the perfect high-heat sear, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in juiciness and develops complex flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining the lamb’s delicate texture and succulence.
- Allow the lamb chops to rest after cooking, which helps redistribute internal juices and ensures each bite remains incredibly moist and tender.
- Serve immediately after resting to enjoy the lamb at its peak flavor and temperature, preserving the herb-infused, crispy exterior.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 414 kcal
- Sugar: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg