Lamb Loin Chops With Cilantro Sauce
These Lamb Loin Chops with Cilantro Sauce are a perfect way to elevate your dinner with minimal effort. The lamb chops are seared to perfection, and the vibrant cilantro sauce adds a refreshing and zesty touch that enhances the rich flavor of the lamb. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, this dish will impress anyone at your table.
Family Favorite: Why We Love Lamb Loin Chops with Cilantro Sauce
In our household, this recipe has become one of those “special dinner” staples. Every time we make these Lamb Loin Chops with Cilantro Sauce, my family gathers around the table in anticipation. The tender, juicy lamb combined with the fresh, herby cilantro sauce brings a combination of flavors that feels luxurious yet comforting. This dish is simple, elegant, and always a hit!
Why You’ll Love Lamb Loin Chops with Cilantro Sauce
- Rich and Flavorful: The lamb is packed with savory goodness, while the cilantro sauce adds a fresh contrast.
- Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for a fancy meal without the hassle.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family or guests with this gourmet dish that feels like a chef’s creation.
Ingredients Notes For Lamb Loin Chops with Cilantro Sauce
- Lamb Loin Chops: Tender and flavorful, these chops cook quickly and stay juicy.
- Fresh Cilantro: The star of the sauce, cilantro brings a fresh, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the lamb.
- Garlic & Lime Juice: These ingredients add a punch of flavor and brightness to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Helps to sear the lamb chops to a golden brown while adding richness to the sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Adds a slight kick to the cilantro sauce, if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Recipe Steps for Lamb Loin Chops with Cilantro Sauce
- Prepare the Cilantro Sauce: In a food processor, blend fresh cilantro, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth. Set aside.
- Season the Lamb: Pat the lamb loin chops dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Lamb Chops: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they reach your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 130°F internal temperature).
- Rest the Lamb: Transfer the chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain their juices.
- Serve: Drizzle the cilantro sauce over the lamb chops and serve immediately.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftover lamb chops and cilantro sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat the lamb chops in a skillet or oven. The cilantro sauce can be served cold or at room temperature.
Variations & Substitutions
- Herb Variations: Swap the cilantro with fresh parsley, mint, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Grill Option: If you prefer, you can grill the lamb chops instead of searing them in a pan.
- Lemon Instead of Lime: If you don’t have lime on hand, lemon juice will work just as well in the cilantro sauce.
Lamb Loin Chops With Cilantro Sauce
Ingredients
- Lamb Loin Chops
- 4-6 lamb loin chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or fresh, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cilantro Sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves packed
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb Loin Chops
- Season the Lamb: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture generously over the lamb loin chops. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes to marinate and come to room temperature.
- Sear the Lamb: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chops and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preferred level of doneness (internal temperature should reach 130°F/54°C for medium-rare).
- Rest the Lamb: Remove the lamb chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Make the Cilantro Sauce
- Blend the Sauce: While the lamb is resting, combine the cilantro, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve
- Plate the Lamb: Place the seared lamb loin chops on a serving platter and drizzle with the cilantro sauce. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish: Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or lemon wedges if desired.