Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking to impress at your next dinner gathering, this Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust is your ticket. It's a dish that combines elegance with a burst of savory flavors, perfect for special occasions or when you just want to treat yourself.

Ingredients for Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust

Racks of lamb are the star here, bringing a rich, tender meat that pairs beautifully with herbs. Olive oil helps in searing the lamb, adding a subtle fruitiness while preventing sticking. The breadcrumbs provide that satisfying crunch in the herb crust. Parsley, rosemary, and thyme are the fresh herbs that add aromatic, earthy notes. Garlic gives a pungent kick, cutting through the richness of the lamb. Salt and pepper season the meat and the crust. Dijon mustard acts as a tangy glue to hold the herb crust in place. Finally, a mint sauce on the side brings a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness. It takes the guesswork out of cooking meat.
  • Let the lamb come to room temperature before searing. This helps it cook more evenly.
  • Don't skip the resting step. It's essential for juicy lamb.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables such as carrots or Brussels sprouts. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light couscous salad would also complement the lamb beautifully. For a wine pairing, consider a bold red, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah, to match the robust flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Regular yellow mustard can work as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.

Rack of Lamb with Herb Crust Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). You want it nice and hot to get that perfect roast. While the oven heats up, trim any excess fat from the lamb racks. Season them generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the meat's natural flavors.

Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the lamb racks for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You're looking for a rich, browned crust here, which seals in the juices.

In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.

Brush the seared lamb with Dijon mustard, making sure to cover the surface evenly. This will not only add flavor but also help the herb mixture adhere. Press the herb mixture onto the mustard-coated lamb, forming a flavorful crust.

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C). Once done, remove the lamb from the oven, cover it with foil, and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute.

After resting, slice the lamb between the bones to serve. Pair it with mint sauce for a refreshing finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Elegant presentation that looks straight out of a gourmet kitchen.
  • Rich, savory flavors thanks to a perfect herb crust.
  • Quick prep and cook time, yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
  • Perfect balance of tenderness and crunch.

Ingredients

2 racks of lamb (about 1.5 pounds each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
Mint sauce for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Trim any excess fat from the lamb racks and season them with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the lamb racks for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
5. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Brush the lamb with Dijon mustard, then press the herb mixture onto the meat to form a crust.
7. Place the lamb in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare doneness.
8. Remove from the oven, cover with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve with mint sauce.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!