🛒 Ingredients
For the Lamb:
- 🐑 2 racks of lamb (about 2 lbs each), frenched
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🌶️ 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Herb Crust:
- 🌿 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 🌿 1/2 cup fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
- 🌿 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
- 🍞 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 🧀 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🧈 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
- 🌶️ 1/4 tsp black pepper
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Lamb
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Season the Lamb:
- Pat the lamb racks dry with paper towels. Rub them evenly with salt, pepper, garlic, and olive oil.
- Sear the Lamb:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb racks for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Prepare the Herb Crust
- Make the Herb Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine parsley, rosemary, thyme, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Apply the Crust:
- Press the herb mixture onto the meaty side of each lamb rack, creating a thick, even crust.
Roast and Rest
- Roast the Lamb:
- Place the lamb racks in the oven and roast for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Rest the Lamb:
- Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Slice and Serve
- Carve the Racks:
- Slice between the bones to create individual lamb chops.
- Garnish and Plate:
- Arrange the chops on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🧊 Make Ahead: Prepare the herb crust mixture in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.
- 🌶️ Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a subtle kick.
- 🍯 Flavor Boost: Drizzle the lamb with a balsamic glaze or honey before serving for added sweetness.
- 🍋 Zesty Twist: Add lemon zest to the herb mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Serve Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, or a fresh green salad. Pair with a bold red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for an exquisite meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb combines tender, juicy meat with a fragrant, crispy herb crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for holiday dinners or special celebrations.
