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Perfect Rack of Lamb Recipe with Easy Mint Chimichurri for Elegant Dining

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A succulent rack of lamb roasted to perfection and served with a bright, fresh mint chimichurri sauce. This elegant yet easy recipe is perfect for special occasions or any time you want a delicious, impressive meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 rack of lamb (about 1.5 to 2 pounds / 700900 grams), frenched and trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves, packed (about 30 grams)
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves (about 15 grams)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 small red chili, deseeded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (60 ml)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (120 ml)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup

Instructions

  1. Remove the rack of lamb from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature. Pat it dry with paper towels. Trim or french the rack if needed.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard if using. Rub evenly all over the lamb rack, including between the bones and on the fat cap side. Let rest while preparing chimichurri.
  3. In a food processor, combine mint leaves, parsley, garlic, red chili, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pulse to chop, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until a loose sauce with some texture forms. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add a touch of oil and sear the lamb fat-side down for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
  5. Transfer the skillet with lamb to the oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F / 54-57°C). For medium, cook until 140-145°F (60-63°C). Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Rest for 10 minutes.
  6. Slice the rack into individual chops between the bones. Serve immediately with generous spoonfuls of mint chimichurri on top or on the side.

Notes

Pat lamb dry before seasoning and searing for a crispy crust. Rest the meat for 10 minutes after roasting to retain juices. Score thick fat caps to render fat evenly. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Chimichurri flavors deepen if made ahead and refrigerated overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: rack of lamb, mint chimichurri, elegant dinner, easy lamb recipe, roasted lamb, fresh herbs, garlic, rosemary, healthy fats