Rustic Mint Pan-Seared Lamb

Featured in: Zesty Weeknight Plate Ideas

This dish features juicy lamb chops expertly pan-seared to lock in flavor and tenderness. A vibrant mint sauce made from fresh herbs, shallot, red wine vinegar, and honey provides bright, rustic notes that complement the rich meat. Preparation is quick, making it an ideal option for a flavorful weeknight dinner. Pair with roasted potatoes or greens to complete a Mediterranean-inspired meal bursting with fresh, natural tastes.

Updated on Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:52:00 GMT
Pan-seared lamb chops, glistening with olive oil, paired with a vibrant, fresh mint sauce for a quick weeknight dinner. Save on Pinterest
Pan-seared lamb chops, glistening with olive oil, paired with a vibrant, fresh mint sauce for a quick weeknight dinner. | lemoncairn.com

Tender, juicy lamb chops pan-seared to perfection and served with a vibrant, rustic mint sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with fresh herb flavor and comes together quickly for a satisfying, elegant meal.

This recipe has become a favorite in my household because it requires minimal effort but delivers incredible taste every time.

Ingredients

  • Lamb: 8 small lamb loin or rib chops (about 1 inch thick), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Mint Sauce: 1 cup fresh mint leaves, coarsely chopped, ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped, 1 small shallot, minced, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 2 teaspoons honey, ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1:
Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.
Step 2:
Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 3:
Add the lamb chops in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 3 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Transfer to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
Step 4:
Meanwhile, make the mint sauce: In a bowl, combine mint, parsley, shallot, red wine vinegar, and honey. Drizzle in olive oil while stirring. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5:
Serve lamb chops warm, drizzled with rustic mint sauce. Garnish with extra mint if desired.
Juicy Rustic Mint Weeknight Pan-Seared Lamb Chops, beautifully seared and drizzled with a flavorful mint sauce. Save on Pinterest
Juicy Rustic Mint Weeknight Pan-Seared Lamb Chops, beautifully seared and drizzled with a flavorful mint sauce. | lemoncairn.com

My family loves gathering around the table for this meal especially on cooler weeknights when comfort food feels just right.

Required Tools

Large skillet or cast iron pan, Tongs, Mixing bowl, Chefs knife, Cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains none of the major 9 allergens. Note always check vinegar and honey labels for processing allergens if needed.

Nutritional Information

Calories 410, Total Fat 31 g, Carbohydrates 5 g, Protein 28 g (per serving)

A close-up of tender lamb chops in a rich sauce, ready to serve with refreshing mint; the perfect easy meal. Save on Pinterest
A close-up of tender lamb chops in a rich sauce, ready to serve with refreshing mint; the perfect easy meal. | lemoncairn.com

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rustic and refined making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I get tender lamb chops?

Pat chops dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and rosemary before searing. Rest them after cooking to retain juices.

What’s the best way to cook lamb chops?

Use a hot skillet to sear the chops 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, ensuring a flavorful crust and juicy interior.

How is the mint sauce prepared?

Combine fresh mint, parsley, minced shallot, red wine vinegar, honey, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to balance flavors.

Can I marinate the lamb beforehand?

Yes, marinating in olive oil, rosemary, and garlic for up to 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.

What sides complement this dish?

Roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad balance the rich lamb and bright mint sauce beautifully.

Rustic Mint Pan-Seared Lamb

Tender lamb chops seared and served with a bright, herbaceous mint sauce for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Prep Time
10 min
Time to Cook
15 min
Overall Time
25 min


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mediterranean

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary details Milk-Free, No Gluten, Lower-Carb

What You Need

Lamb

01 8 small lamb loin or rib chops, approximately 1 inch thick
02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Mint Sauce

01 1 cup fresh mint leaves, coarsely chopped
02 ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
03 1 small shallot, minced
04 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
05 2 teaspoons honey
06 ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
07 Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare Lamb: Pat lamb chops dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.

Step 02

Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until hot.

Step 03

Sear Lamb: Place lamb chops in a single layer in the skillet. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Transfer to a plate, loosely cover with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.

Step 04

Prepare Mint Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mint, parsley, shallot, red wine vinegar, and honey. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 05

Serve: Serve lamb chops warm, drizzled with the mint sauce. Garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or cast iron pan
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowl
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Alerts

Review ingredients for allergens and contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
  • Free from major allergens; check vinegar and honey labels for processing allergens if necessary.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Nutritional content is for informational use and is not a substitute for healthcare advice.
  • Calorie Count: 410
  • Total Fat: 31 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Proteins: 28 g