Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce Recipe

Succulent Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce Recipe

Succulent lamb chops dancing with zesty mint sauce can turn an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure.

Mediterranean cuisine shines through this elegant protein-packed dish that speaks volumes about simple, sophisticated cooking.

Tender meat marinated with herbs promises a delightful experience for anyone seeking robust flavors.

Lamb’s rich complexity pairs beautifully with bright, refreshing mint, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture.

Each bite tells a story of traditional cooking techniques merged with contemporary style.

Home cooks will appreciate the straightforward preparation that delivers restaurant-quality results without complicated steps.

The combination of smoky grilled lamb and cool mint sauce guarantees a memorable dining moment that you’ll want to savor again and again.

What You’ll Need For Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce

Main Protein:
  • Lamb Chops: Premium cut with rich flavor, best when fresh and at room temperature before grilling.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and ensures even cooking.
  • Garlic: Adds robust, aromatic depth to the lamb.
  • Rosemary: Classic herb that complements lamb's natural taste.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing overall flavor.
Mint Sauce Ingredients:
  • Fresh Mint: Bright, classic herb that provides a cool contrast to rich lamb.
  • Boiling Water: Helps release mint's essential oils and softens herb.
  • White Vinegar: Adds tangy brightness and balances the sauce.
  • Sugar: Provides subtle sweetness to round out mint sauce flavor.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the sauce's overall taste.

Easy Instructions For Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce

Step 1: Create Tantalizing Mint Sauce

Grab a small mixing bowl and gather these fresh ingredients:
  • Freshly chopped mint leaves
  • Boiling water
  • White wine vinegar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Pinch of sea salt

Combine mint leaves with boiling water and let the flavors mingle for 5 minutes. Stir in vinegar, sugar, and salt. Allow the sauce to cool and develop its vibrant personality while you prepare the lamb.

Step 2: Massage Lamb with Flavor

Whip up a mouthwatering marinade using:
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Crushed fresh garlic
  • Finely chopped rosemary sprigs
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Generously coat lamb chops with this aromatic mixture. Let the chops rest at room temperature, allowing the seasonings to work their magic for 20-30 minutes.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to a sizzling medium-high temperature. Carefully place lamb chops on the grates, creating those perfect charred lines. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes, aiming for a juicy medium-rare with an internal temperature of 135°F. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chops.

Step 4: Rest and Serve with Flair

Remove lamb chops from the grill and let them relax for 5 minutes. This crucial resting period helps seal in those delicious juices. Drizzle with the vibrant mint sauce or serve it on the side for guests to enjoy. Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal that’ll impress everyone at the table.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten up the dish.

Tips To Make Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce Better

  • Maximize Mint Infusion: Let chopped mint steep in boiling water to release maximum flavor and create a more vibrant, aromatic sauce that complements the rich lamb perfectly.
  • Master Marinating Technique: Allow lamb chops to rest at room temperature during marination, ensuring even seasoning penetration and helping meat cook more uniformly on the grill.
  • Nail the Grill Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat to achieve beautiful grill marks and seal in juices, creating a deliciously caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
  • Rest and Relax Meat: Always let grilled lamb chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensuring each bite remains succulent and flavorful.
  • Customize Doneness Precision: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, targeting 135°F for perfect medium-rare lamb chops that are pink and incredibly tender.

How To Store Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce

  • Wrap leftover lamb chops tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F to preserve moisture and prevent toughening.
  • Avoid microwaving, which can dry out the delicate meat.
  • Separate the mint sauce into a different sealed container, keeping it refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • When ready to enjoy, bring the lamb to room temperature before reheating to ensure even warming and best flavor preservation.

Great Pairings For Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the rich lamb's flavor, with herbal notes complementing the mint sauce perfectly.
  • Match with Roasted Vegetable Medley: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a light, colorful side that balances the lamb's robust taste and adds textural contrast.
  • Elevate with Bold Red Wine: A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah enhances the lamb's deep, meaty flavor, creating a luxurious dining experience with its tannic structure.
  • Serve with Herb-Infused Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with parsley, thyme, and a touch of lemon zest adds a bright, fresh accompaniment that echoes the dish's Mediterranean essence.

Fun Variations On Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce

  • Herb-Infused Adventure: Swap rosemary with thyme or oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired marinade that brings fresh herbal notes to your lamb chops.
  • Spicy Moroccan Rendition: Add cumin, paprika, and a touch of cinnamon to the marinade for a warm, North African flavor profile that transforms the classic recipe.
  • Balsamic Elegance: Replace vinegar in the mint sauce with aged balsamic vinegar, creating a richer, more complex condiment that complements the lamb's robust taste.
  • Citrus Zest Upgrade: Mix lemon zest and orange juice into the marinade for a bright, tangy dimension that cuts through the lamb's richness and adds a fresh summer feel.

FAQs About Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce

  • Why use mint sauce with lamb chops?

Mint sauce is a classic British condiment that perfectly balances the rich, slightly gamey flavor of lamb. The bright, refreshing mint cuts through the meat’s richness, creating a delightful taste contrast that’s been a traditional pairing for generations.

  • Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh rosemary, use about one-third the amount of dried rosemary. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Just crush the dried rosemary between your fingers to release more flavor before adding to the marinade.

  • How do I know when the lamb chops are perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, check the doneness by pressing the meat – it should feel slightly firm with a bit of give when touched.

  • Is it important to let the lamb chops rest after grilling?

Yes! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Let the lamb chops sit for about 5 minutes after grilling, which helps keep the meat tender and prevents it from drying out when you cut into it.

Why Grilled Lamb Chops With Mint Sauce Are A Must-Try

  • Speedy Gourmet Delight: This grilled lamb chops recipe transforms an elegant dish into a quick weeknight meal, taking just 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
  • Master Flavor Pairing: The classic combination of rosemary-infused lamb with zesty mint sauce creates a restaurant-quality experience right in your home kitchen, elevating traditional grilling.
  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: Using just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients like mint, garlic, and rosemary, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen complexity.
  • Flexible Cooking Technique: Perfect for outdoor summer gatherings or intimate dinner parties, these lamb chops can be easily adapted to different doneness levels and grill types, making them versatile for various occasions.
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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