Description

A tender, juicy rack of lamb coated in a vibrant mint pesto crust that’s both elegant and easy to make. Perfect for special occasions or an impressive weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

2 racks of lamb (about 1½ to 2 lbs each), frenched
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
½ cup fresh parsley leaves
¼ cup toasted almonds (or pine nuts)
2 garlic cloves
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup olive oil
Zest and juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the racks of lamb dry with paper towels. Rub each rack with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
In a food processor, combine mint, parsley, almonds, garlic, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, drizzle in olive oil until a thick paste forms. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the meat side of each rack.
Spoon the mint pesto over the mustard-coated side, pressing gently to adhere evenly.
Optional: Sear the fat side of the lamb in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes for extra flavor.
Place the racks, crust side up, on a foil-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature 130°F) or longer for desired doneness.
Remove from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes.
Slice between the bones into individual chops and serve immediately with extra pesto on the side.

Notes

Let the lamb rest before slicing to retain juices. Use fresh mint for the best flavor. The pesto can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for a month. For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or use a vegan substitute.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 2 chops per se
Calories: 420
Sodium: 450
Fat: 30
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 3
Fiber: 1
Protein: 35

Keywords: rack of lamb, mint pesto, lamb recipe, gourmet dinner, easy lamb roast, holiday recipe