Mediterranean Garlic Rosemary Lamb Chops

Ingredients:

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, finely diced (or ½ small red onion for a bolder flavor)
• 1 ½ tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (adds warmth and depth)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a Mediterranean smoky note)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 ½ pounds frenched rack of lamb, excess fat trimmed and cut into chops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or crumbled feta cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, shallot (or red onion), red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

2. Marinate the Lamb

Place the lamb chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring the chops are completely coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

3. Bring to Room Temperature

Remove the lamb from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Let it come to room temperature and shake off excess marinade.

4. Cook the Lamb Chops

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lamb chops and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness (125°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium).

5. Rest the Meat

Transfer the lamb chops to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.

6. Serve Mediterranean-Style

Plate the lamb chops with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, a few lemon wedges on the side, and optionally, some crumbled feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flavor. Serve alongside couscous, grilled vegetables, or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad.