Macadamia-Crusted Lamb Chops with Wattleseed and Mint Pesto

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

Juicy lamb chops crusted with crushed macadamia nuts and fragrant wattleseed, paired with a fresh mint and parsley pesto that cuts through the richness. This australian-inspired lamb ready in about 40 minutes blends lamb loin chops, raw macadamia nuts, crushed, ground wattleseed into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Australian cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine 1 cup crushed raw macadamia nuts, 1 tsp ground wattleseed, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a shallow dish.
  2. Step 2: Brush 8 lamb loin chops with 2 tbsp olive oil, then press both sides firmly into the macadamia mixture to coat.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 2 minutes per side until golden.
  4. Step 4: Transfer skillet to the oven and roast lamb chops for 8-10 minutes for medium rare; remove and let rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Meanwhile, blitz 1/2 cup fresh mint, 1/2 cup fresh parsley, 2 tbsp pine nuts, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup grated parmesan, and 2 tbsp lemon juice in a food processor while drizzling in 1 tbsp olive oil until a coarse pesto forms.
  6. Step 6: Serve the lamb chops topped with the mint and parsley pesto for a fresh and nutty flavor contrast.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Macadamia-Crusted Lamb Chops with Wattleseed and Mint Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (20 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Macadamia-Crusted Lamb Chops with Wattleseed and Mint Pesto?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Macadamia-Crusted Lamb Chops with Wattleseed and 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 Macadamia-Crusted Lamb Chops with Wattleseed and 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 Macadamia-Crusted Lamb Chops with Wattleseed and Mint Pesto?

Australian lamb 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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