Lemon Herb Roasted Lamb Loin Chops with Asparagus
Embrace the flavors of spring with this delightful dish featuring succulent lamb loin chops. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme, the lamb develops a beautiful depth of flavor. Roasting them with fresh asparagus spears ensures both components are cooked to perfection – the lamb juicy and tender, and the asparagus bright green and slightly crisp. It’s a sophisticated yet straightforward meal, perfect for a March dinner.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Prepare the marinade: In a shallow dish or large Ziploc bag, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the lamb loin chops, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. If refrigerating, bring to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- 2Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 3Prepare the asparagus: On the prepared baking sheet, toss the trimmed asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on one side of the baking sheet.
- 4Sear the lamb (optional): For a deeper crust, heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove lamb chops from marinade (discard excess marinade) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. Transfer to the other side of the baking sheet with the asparagus.
- 5Roast: Place the baking sheet with the lamb chops and asparagus into the preheated oven. Roast for 10-15 minutes for medium-rare lamb (internal temperature 135-140°F / 57-60°C), or longer for desired doneness. The asparagus should be tender-crisp.
- 6Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the lamb chops from the oven and transfer them to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and flavorful meat. Serve the rested lamb chops immediately with the roasted asparagus.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of lamb can I use if I can't find loin chops?
You can substitute with lamb shoulder chops or even a boneless leg of lamb cut into thick steaks. Adjust cooking times accordingly; shoulder chops may take slightly longer, while leg steaks might cook faster depending on thickness.
How do I know when the lamb is cooked to my preferred doneness?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 135-140°F (57-60°C). For medium, 140-145°F (60-63°C). For medium-well, 145-150°F (63-66°C). Remember that the temperature will rise a few degrees while resting.
Can I grill the lamb chops instead of roasting?
Yes, grilling is an excellent option! After marinating, grill the lamb chops over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached. You can grill the asparagus in a grill basket or directly on the grates alongside the lamb.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
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