Elegant herb-crusted rack of lamb with a fragrant rosemary-thyme crust and vibrant mint pesto, perfect for weddings or gourmet dinners.
1 rack of lamb (frenched)
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 cup breadcrumbs
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for pesto)
Edible flowers (for garnish)
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season rack of lamb with salt and pepper.
3. Mix rosemary, thyme, breadcrumbs, and 2 tbsp olive oil for herb crust.
4. Press mixture onto top of lamb rack.
5. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Sear lamb crust-side down for 2–3 minutes, flip, and sear other side.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and roast for 15–20 minutes for medium-rare.
8. Let lamb rest for 10 minutes.
9. In food processor, blend mint, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and pinch of salt.
10. Drizzle in olive oil until pesto is smooth.
11. Slice lamb into chops and arrange on platter.
12. Drizzle with pesto and garnish with edible flowers.
Use a white platter for visual appeal.
Resting the lamb ensures juicier meat.
Add lemon juice to pesto for extra brightness.
Great paired with baby potatoes and seasonal vegetables.