Garlic Herb Lamb Chops Recipe

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Marinate the Lamb Chops:**
– In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
– Place the lamb chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, then pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to marinate.

2. **Prepare the Grill or Pan:**
– If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If cooking on the stovetop, heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil.

3. **Cook the Lamb Chops:**
– Once the grill or skillet is hot, place the marinated lamb chops on the surface. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your lamb chops cooked more thoroughly. Flip the lamb chops carefully using tongs to ensure they sear evenly on both sides.
– If cooking on a skillet, you can also sear the edges of the chops by holding them with tongs for a few seconds to get a nice caramelization.

4. **Rest the Lamb Chops:**
– Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the lamb chops from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures the lamb stays tender and flavorful.

5. **Serve:**
– Arrange the lamb chops on a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired, and serve immediately. For an extra touch of elegance, pair the lamb with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

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### **Tips for Perfect Garlic Herb Lamb Chops**

– **Choose the Right Lamb:** For the best results, select high-quality lamb chops. Rack of lamb is a popular choice for an elegant presentation, but individual chops work perfectly as well. Look for chops with a good amount of marbling for tenderness and flavor.
– **Adjust the Cooking Time:** Lamb chops can be cooked to various levels of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. For medium, cook to 145°F. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your lamb chops.
– **Rest the Meat:** Allowing the lamb chops to rest after cooking helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
– **Add More Herbs:** If you love fresh herbs, feel free to experiment with adding mint, oregano, or parsley to the marinade for an even more complex flavor profile.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

Garlic herb lamb chops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement their bold flavors. Here are some ideas to serve alongside your lamb:

– **Roasted Vegetables:** Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes roasted with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary make a perfect match for lamb chops.
– **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes offer a comforting, buttery side that balances the richness of the lamb.
– **Minted Peas:** Fresh peas with mint provide a light and refreshing contrast to the savory lamb.
– **Crisp Salad:** A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a tangy feta cheese dressing adds a burst of freshness.

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### **Why Garlic Herb Lamb Chops are a Must-Try**

Garlic herb lamb chops are a fantastic dish that brings elegance and flavor to any meal. The tender, juicy meat combined with the aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and subtle hints of lemon creates a perfect balance of savory goodness. Plus, the recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress, making it a great choice for everything from weeknight dinners to special celebrations.

So, if you’re looking to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special, give this garlic herb lamb chops recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!