Name: Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 lamb loin chops; salt and freshly ground pepper; 1 pinch dried thyme; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 10 garlic cloves; 3 tbsp water; 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 2 tbsp parsley; 1 pinch red pepper

The rich, savory taste of lamb chops pairs perfectly with the aromatic garlic in this delightful dish. This recipe brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table, making it a fantastic choice for any special occasion or a cozy night in.

Photos of Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up lamb loin chops and fresh parsley. These ingredients are key to achieving the authentic flavor and presentation of this dish.

Ingredients for Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Lamb loin chops: Tender cuts of lamb that are perfect for quick cooking and have a rich, savory flavor.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the lamb.

Freshly ground pepper: Adds a spicy, slightly pungent flavor to the dish.

Dried thyme: Provides a subtle earthy and minty note that complements the lamb.

Extra virgin olive oil: Used for cooking the lamb, it adds a fruity and rich flavor.

Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with a robust and aromatic flavor.

Water: Helps to deglaze the pan and create the sauce.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy acidic balance to the richness of the lamb.

Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of peppery flavor.

Red pepper: Adds a touch of heat to the sauce.

One reader, Brina Sterling says:

The lamb chops sizzled with garlic were absolutely divine. The meat was tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the zesty garlic and lemon sauce. A delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Brina Sterling

Techniques Required for Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Yes.

How to season lamb: Explanation on how to properly season lamb with salt, pepper, and thyme to ensure even flavor distribution. How to heat oil: Explanation on how to heat olive oil until shimmering, indicating it is hot enough for cooking. How to brown lamb chops: Explanation on how to cook lamb chops until browned on the bottom, ensuring proper sear and flavor. How to deglaze a pan: Explanation on how to add liquid (water and lemon juice) to the hot pan to scrape up browned bits, enhancing the sauce. How to make a pan sauce: Explanation on how to combine ingredients in the pan to create a flavorful sauce to pour over the lamb chops.

How To Make Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Made with a zesty herbed sauce, these tender lamb chops are sizzled in extra virgin olive oil and tons of garlic for a juicy and meaty bite.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8lamb loin chops,about 2 lbs
salt and freshly ground pepper
1pinchdried thyme
3tbspextra virgin olive oil
10garlic cloves
3tbspwater
2tbspfresh lemon juice
2tbspparsley,minced
1pinchred pepper,crushed

Instructions

Season the lamb with salt and pepper and sprinkle lightly with thyme.
In a very large skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the lamb chops and garlic and cook over moderately high heat until for about 3 minutes the chops are browned on the bottom.
Turn the chops and garlic and cook for about 2 minutes longer for medium meat until the chops are browned. Transfer the chops to plates, leaving the garlic in the skillet.
Add the water, lemon juice, parsley, and crushed red pepper to the pan and cook, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom, for about 1 minute until sizzling.
Pour the garlic and pan sauce over the lamb chops and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 693.81kcal
Fat: 60.82g
Saturated Fat: 23.76g
Monounsaturated Fat: 28.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.05g
Carbohydrates: 3.58g
Fiber: 0.42g
Sugar: 0.29g
Protein: 31.64g
Cholesterol: 140.60mg
Sodium: 532.51mg
Calcium: 49.15mg
Potassium: 464.56mg
Iron: 3.45mg
Vitamin A: 8.29µg
Vitamin C: 7.89mg

Technique Tip for Perfectly Sizzled Garlic Lamb Chops

To achieve a perfect sear on the lamb chops, make sure the skillet is very hot before adding the olive oil. This ensures that the meat browns evenly and develops a flavorful crust. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat and prevent steaming.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish

Pre-season the lamb: Season the lamb chops with salt, pepper, and thyme ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Prep garlic in advance: Peel and crush the garlic cloves beforehand to save time during cooking.

Use a large skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook all the chops at once, reducing cooking time.

Measure ingredients: Measure out the olive oil, water, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper before you start cooking.

Quick sauce prep: While the lamb chops are cooking, mix the water, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper in a small bowl to add quickly to the skillet.

Substitute Ingredients For Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic Recipe

lamb loin chops - Substitute with pork chops: Pork chops have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative to lamb.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami.
freshly ground pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and can provide a similar peppery kick.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary has a similar earthy flavor and can complement the meat well.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a similar aromatic quality and a mild garlic-like flavor.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a similar tangy acidity.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, bright flavor that can replace parsley.
red pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a mild heat and a similar color to red pepper.

Presenting Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Select premium cuts: Choose lamb loin chops that are well-marbled and of the highest quality to ensure tenderness and flavor.
Season with precision: Lightly season the lamb chops with salt, freshly ground pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Sear to perfection: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a very large skillet until shimmering. Add the lamb chops and garlic cloves, cooking over moderately high heat until the chops are browned on the bottom, about 3 minutes.
Achieve ideal doneness: Turn the lamb chops and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes longer for medium meat until the chops are browned. Transfer the chops to plates, leaving the garlic in the skillet.
Create a vibrant sauce: Add water, fresh lemon juice, parsley, and a pinch of red pepper to the pan. Cook, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom, for about 1 minute until sizzling.
Plate with elegance: Arrange the lamb chops on a pristine white plate, ensuring each chop is evenly spaced. Drizzle the garlic and pan sauce over the chops, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine.
Garnish thoughtfully: Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a light dusting of red pepper for a touch of color and a hint of spice.
Serve immediately: Present the dish promptly to maintain the perfect temperature and texture, ensuring the lamb chops are enjoyed at their peak.

Essential Tools for Making Sizzling Garlic Lamb Chops

Skillet: A very large skillet is essential for cooking the lamb chops and garlic evenly.
Tongs: Useful for turning the lamb chops and garlic without piercing the meat.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the olive oil, water, lemon juice, and dried thyme accurately.
Garlic press: Handy for crushing the garlic cloves if you prefer a more intense garlic flavor.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the parsley finely.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping parsley and preparing other ingredients.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but useful for checking the internal temperature of the lamb chops to ensure they are cooked to your desired doneness.
Spatula: Helps in scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet when making the pan sauce.
Serving plates: For transferring the cooked lamb chops and serving them immediately.
Small bowl: Useful for mixing the water, lemon juice, parsley, and crushed red pepper before adding them to the skillet.

Storing and Freezing Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

To store leftover lamb chops, allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the lamb chops, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped chops in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen lamb chops, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave, but be careful not to overcook the meat.
When reheating leftover or thawed lamb chops, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chops on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help keep them moist.
To maintain the quality of the garlic sauce, store it separately from the lamb chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How To Reheat Leftover Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the chops and cover them loosely with another piece of foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the chops from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the lamb chops on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval. Be careful not to overheat the chops, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheat the lamb chops in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chops and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they reach the desired temperature. This method works best if the chops are at room temperature before reheating.
To recreate the original flavors, heat a small amount of olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, then add the lamb chops. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chops and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
For a flavorful twist, create a quick pan sauce while reheating the lamb chops. After searing the chops in a skillet, remove them from the pan and add a small amount of chicken stock, red wine, or balsamic vinegar. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and let the liquid simmer for 1-2 minutes. Stir in a pat of butter and pour the sauce over the reheated chops before serving.

Interesting Fact About Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

A random fact about this recipe is that garlic not only adds a rich flavor to the lamb chops, but it also has numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure.

Is Making Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic Cost-Effective?

This lamb chops sizzled with garlic recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary expense is the lamb loin chops, which can be pricey. However, the other ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley are relatively affordable. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $30-$40 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for lamb chops sizzled with garlic is a flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories and fat. While olive oil is a healthier choice compared to other oils, using too much can still contribute to excess calorie intake.
Lamb is a red meat, which is typically higher in saturated fat compared to leaner protein sources like chicken or fish. Consuming high amounts of saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The recipe doesn't include any vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients, which are essential for a balanced and healthy meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe. Instead of 3 tablespoons, try using just 1-2 tablespoons to minimize the calorie and fat content.
Trim any visible fat from the lamb chops before cooking to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Incorporate more vegetables into the recipe. For example, you could serve the lamb chops over a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
Use low-sodium broth instead of water to add more flavor without increasing the salt content.
Serve the lamb chops with a whole grain side dish, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add fiber and other essential nutrients to the meal.

Editor's Opinion on Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

This recipe for lamb chops sizzled with garlic is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. The use of garlic and thyme enhances the natural richness of the lamb, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang. Cooking the garlic alongside the chops infuses the dish with a robust aroma. The final touch of parsley and red pepper in the pan sauce provides a vibrant finish. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that is both elegant and straightforward, perfect for a special dinner or a sophisticated weeknight meal.

Enhance Your Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that complements the rich, savory lamb chops beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic. This classic comfort food is elevated with a touch of parsley and a hint of lemon zest, making it the perfect companion to the succulent lamb chops.

Mediterranean Couscous Salad: Mediterranean Couscous Salad: A vibrant mix of couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This refreshing and colorful salad brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors that harmonize with the lamb chops.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears, lightly charred on the grill and finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest and a dash of sea salt. This simple yet elegant side dish adds a touch of freshness and a subtle citrus note to your meal.

Herbed Quinoa Pilaf: Herbed Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, mixed with sautéed mushrooms and shallots. This nutritious and flavorful pilaf provides a hearty and wholesome base that pairs wonderfully with the lamb chops.

Similar Recipes to Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Garlic Herb Crusted Rack Of Lamb: Indulge in a succulent rack of lamb crusted with a blend of fresh herbs and garlic. This dish is perfect for a special occasion and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a glass of red wine.

Rosemary And Garlic Roasted Chicken: Experience the comforting flavors of roasted chicken infused with rosemary and garlic. The crispy skin and juicy meat make this a family favorite, especially when served with mashed potatoes and green beans.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Dive into a plate of shrimp scampi cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is best enjoyed over a bed of pasta or with a side of crusty bread.

Garlic And Herb Grilled Pork Chops: Savor the smoky flavors of grilled pork chops marinated in a mixture of garlic, herbs, and olive oil. These chops are perfect for a summer barbecue and pair well with grilled vegetables and a fresh salad.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Transform Brussels sprouts into a crispy, flavorful side dish with garlic and Parmesan cheese. These roasted sprouts are a perfect accompaniment to any main course and are sure to convert even the most skeptical eaters.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all brought together with a touch of olive oil. The mushrooms are then baked until golden and bubbly, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The earthy mushrooms complement the rich, cheesy filling, making them an irresistible appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of crusty bread that are toasted to perfection. Top them with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all drizzled with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy twist, while a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly ground pepper enhances the flavors. This simple yet elegant appetizer is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: Elevate the lemon tart with a twist of rosemary-infused honey. The buttery crust provides a delightful contrast to the tangy lemon curd, while the herbal notes from the honey add an unexpected depth. Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a few fresh rosemary sprigs for an elegant finish.

Chocolate Mousse: Transform the classic chocolate mousse by incorporating a layer of espresso-soaked ladyfingers. The rich, velvety mousse pairs beautifully with the bold coffee flavor, creating a tiramisu-inspired delight. Top with a dusting of cocoa powder and a few chocolate shavings for a sophisticated touch.

Why trust this Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic Recipe:

This recipe for lamb chops sizzled with garlic is a surefire way to impress your guests with minimal effort. The combination of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and parsley creates a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the tender lamb. The use of garlic adds a rich, aromatic depth, while a pinch of red pepper gives it a subtle kick. Trust this recipe for a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to prepare at home.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Lamb Chops Sizzled with Garlic recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I know when the lamb chops are cooked to medium?

You can tell the lamb chops are cooked to medium when they have a nice browned crust on the outside and the internal temperature reaches about 135°F (57°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can also check by cutting into one of the chops; the meat should be slightly pink in the center.

Can I use a different herb instead of thyme?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of thyme, you can substitute it with rosemary, oregano, or even a mix of Italian herbs. Each will give the lamb chops a unique flavor.

What can I serve with these lamb chops?

These lamb chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or even a simple couscous or quinoa dish.

Can I make this recipe with a different cut of lamb?

Yes, you can use other cuts like lamb rib chops or shoulder chops. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness and type of the cut.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

To prevent the garlic from burning, make sure to keep an eye on it while cooking and stir it occasionally. If you notice it starting to brown too quickly, you can reduce the heat slightly. Also, adding the water, lemon juice, and parsley mixture will help deglaze the pan and prevent the garlic from burning.