Charred Lamb Chops with Herb Salsa
Lamb chops, with their inherent gaminess, can stand up to bolder flavors than, say, pork or chicken. They're also not nearly as fatty as a good steak, so they require a more delicate touch than a flank or strip. This recipe for charred lamb chops with herb salsa is a great way to balance the richness of the meat with the freshness of herbs and the acidity of vinegar.
I've always been a fan of lamb chops, but it wasn't until I started working at a restaurant that I really learned how to cook them properly. The chef there taught me that the key to a great lamb chop is to cook it over high heat so that the outside gets charred while the inside remains juicy and tender. He also taught me the importance of using fresh herbs and spices to brighten up the flavor of the meat. This recipe for charred lamb chops with herb salsa is a combination of everything I learned from that chef, plus a few of my own personal touches. I hope you enjoy it!
Charred Lamb Chops with Herb Salsa Charred Lamb Chops with Herb Salsa Charred Lamb Chops with Herb Salsa Charred Lamb Chops with Herb Salsa
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound lamb chops
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Brush the lamb chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
  4. While the lamb chops are cooking, make the herb salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the parsley, mint, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil.
  5. Season the herb salsa with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
  7. Top the lamb chops with the herb salsa and enjoy.
Why It Works
  • The high heat of the grill or grill pan creates a flavorful char on the outside of the lamb chops, while the indirect heat of the oven helps to cook the inside to perfection.
  • The herb salsa is a great way to add flavor and freshness to the lamb chops. The parsley, mint, and cilantro add a bright, herbaceous flavor, while the garlic and red wine vinegar add a touch of acidity and depth.
  • The lamb chops are rested before serving, which allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.