Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto - Easter Dinner Ideas

If you're looking to impress at your next dinner gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these Grilled Lamb Chops with Pesto are the perfect choice.

Juicy, tender lamb chops grilled to perfection and topped with a vibrant herbaceous pesto make for an elegant and satisfying meal.

Paired with a colorful vegetable medley featuring Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, leeks, tomatoes, and garlic, this dish strikes a perfect balance of rich flavors and fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Grilled Lamb – Tender, juicy lamb chops with a smoky char that enhances their natural flavor.
• Fresh and Flavorful Pesto – A bright, herb-filled sauce that complements the richness of the lamb.
• Wholesome Vegetable Medley – A colorful blend of Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, leeks, tomatoes, and garlic for a nutritious and flavorful side.
• Elegant Yet Simple – This dish looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Grilled Lamb Chops:

• 8 gourmet lamb chops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetable Medley:

• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 leek, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Grilled Lamb Chops with Pesto

1. Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped. Slowly stream in olive oil while blending until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Marinate the Lamb Chops

Rub the lamb chops with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh rosemary (if using). Let the lamb sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

3. Grill the Lamb Chops

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the lamb chops on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred doneness. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

4. Prepare the Vegetable Medley

While the lamb is grilling, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the bell peppers, leeks, and garlic, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Finally, toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble and Serve

Plate the grilled lamb chops over a generous helping of the vegetable medley. Drizzle the fresh pesto over the lamb and serve with extra pesto on the side.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Lamb Chops

• Use High-Quality Lamb – Choosing gourmet lamb chops ensures tender, flavorful meat.
• Don’t Overcook – Lamb is best served medium-rare to medium to retain its juiciness and tenderness.
• Let the Meat Rest – Allowing the lamb to rest after grilling keeps the juices locked in.
• Customize the Pesto – Swap basil for arugula or spinach, or use walnuts instead of pine nuts for a unique twist.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
• A side of creamy mashed potatoes or herbed couscous.
• A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the lamb.

A Delicious and Elegant Meal

These Grilled Lamb Chops with Pesto offer a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and fresh, vibrant ingredients. The tender lamb, paired with a zesty pesto and a wholesome vegetable medley, makes for a balanced and satisfying dish. Whether you're hosting a special dinner or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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Source: Poor Man's Gourmet Kitchen