Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops with Roasted Vegetables

This recipe for herb-crusted lamb chops is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress guests with an elegant dish. Juicy, flavorful chops are coated with a blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic, then cooked to perfection. They are served with caramelized oven-roasted vegetables, including baby potatoes, carrots, cherry tomatoes, shallots, and crispy asparagus, which add richness and color to the plate. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of tender meat and aromatic vegetable flavors, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

Here’s a detailed recipe for the elegant dish shown in the image, featuring tender lamb chops paired with perfectly roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

For the Lamb Chops:

• Lamb Chops: 8 pieces (about 1.5 kg)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Fresh Thyme: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• Baby Carrots: 1 cup
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup
• Shallots: 4, peeled and halved
• Baby Potatoes: 1 cup, diced
• Asparagus Spears: 8-10
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb Chops:
   • In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Season with salt and black pepper.
   • Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb chops, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the lamb marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Cook the Lamb Chops:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil to the skillet.
   • Sear the lamb chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 145°F or 63°C). Remove from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes.
3. Prepare the Roasted Vegetables:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, shallots, diced baby potatoes, and asparagus spears with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper.
   • Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Place the roasted vegetables on a serving plate. Arrange the seared lamb chops on top.
   • Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and drizzle any pan juices over the lamb for extra flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately while warm, paired with a side of your favorite red wine or a light, refreshing salad.

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: ~500 kcal
• Protein: ~40g
• Fat: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: ~600mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Servings:

• Serves: 4 people

Enjoy this gourmet meal with its perfect combination of savory, herby lamb chops and caramelized, flavorful vegetables!