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+ servings

Lamb Lollipops with Mint Pesto

Serving Size: 10
These Lamb Lollipops are the perfect appetizer for a party or gathering of friends and family. They also make a great main course.

Recipe by: Kris Longwell

Cook Times

Active Prep20
Hands-On Cook10
Hands-Off Cook0
Passive60
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Recipe Serving Size10

Cooking Tools Required

12-inch saute pan, Cutting board, Grill, Kitchen towels, Measuring cups and spoons, Mixing bowls, Sharp Knives, Tongs, Top Stove

Ingredients

  • 3 rack lamb frenched and cut into chops and trimmed of all but thin layer of fat
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt more or less to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper more or less to taste
  • 3 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lemon cut into wedges

For the mint pesto:

  • 2 cup fresh mint lightly packed
  • 1 cup Italian parsley lightly packed
  • 1/4 cup salted roasted pistachios
  • 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic smashed
  • 4 tablespoon cold water

Instructions

  • Liberally sprinkle the chops with salt and pepper.
  • In a small bowl, combine the garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Add the olive oil and whisk until combined.
  • Pour the marinade over the chops and turn to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
  • Meanwhile make the pesto. Add the mint, parsley, pistachios, parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and 4 tablespoonsof cold water to a blender. Blend on medium speed until the pesto is mostly smooth. Add additional water, 1 tablespoon at a time if needed to thin the pesto and help it blend.
  • When ready to cook the chops, heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat, or turn your grill on medium-high heat for direct heat grilling.
  • Sear the chops (in batches if using a hot skillet) until browned on both sides, about a total of 4 to 5 minutes for medium to medium-rare.
  • Transfer to a platter and squeeze a lemon wedge over the top.
Reheating Instructions
Heat in a non stick skillet for several minutes on each side over medium heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 608kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 57g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 25g | Cholesterol: 113mg | Sodium: 433mg | Potassium: 309mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 43IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg