Mint-Pesto Lamb Chops

  Dinner

I adore the taste and richness of lamb. But it takes bold flavors to complement the lamb, and this recipe definitely does that. The simple mint-cilantro pesto marries well with the lamb flavor, while the pomegranate-balsamic reduction adds the perfect balance to finish off the dish. This easy-to-prepare entree is delicious and gourmet, and is sure to impress.

Mint-Pesto Lamb Chops

Average Rating: 3

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 40 min. Cook: 20 min.
YIELD: 8 servings.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pomegranate juice
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 8 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • LAMB:
  • 8 double-cut lamb rib chops (2 inches thick and 4 ounces each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: Pomegranate seeds and torn fresh mint leaves

Instructions

  • 1. In a large saucepan, bring pomegranate juice and vinegar to a boil over medium heat; cook until reduced to 1/2 cup.
  • 2. Meanwhile, for pesto, place the mint, cilantro, garlic, salt and pepper in a small food processor; cover and pulse until chopped. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream.
  • 3. Coat chops with pesto. In a large cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet, brown lamb in oil on all sides.
  • 4. In a 450° oven, bake, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until meat reaches desired doneness (for medium-rare, a thermometer should read 135°; medium, 140°; medium-well, 145°). Drizzle with pomegranate sauce and, if desired, sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and mint leaves.

Nutrition Facts

2 lamb chops with 1 tablespoon sauce: 238 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 352mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 15g protein.
Diabetic Exchanges:
2 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch.

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