Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender grilled lamb chops seasoned with a quaternary spice mix served alongside a refreshing mint pesto that highlights secondary flavor notes. This mediterranean ready in about 45 minutes pairs lamb loin chops, ground cumin, ground coriander for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.4 (12 ratings) Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper to create the quaternary spice mix. Rub this evenly over 8 lamb loin chops (about 1 1/2 lbs) along with 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil. Let rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  2. Step 2: While the lamb marinates, prepare the secondary mint pesto by combining 1 cup packed fresh mint leaves, 1/2 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 large garlic clove, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a food processor. Pulse while drizzling in 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil until smooth but still slightly textured.
  3. Step 3: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, until caramelized on the outside and medium-rare inside (about 135°F internal temperature).
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat and let the chops rest for 5 minutes. Serve each chop topped with a generous spoonful of the secondary mint pesto.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (30 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep lamb loin chops from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto?

Mediterranean mediterranean like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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