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Perfect Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb Recipe with Easy Mint Gremolata

herb-crusted rack of lamb - featured image

A simple yet impressive rack of lamb with a crispy herb crust and fresh mint gremolata, perfect for special occasions or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds rack of lamb, frenched
  • A handful parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (about 50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • For the mint gremolata:
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the rack of lamb dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat or silver skin if necessary. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. (About 5 minutes)
  2. In a bowl, combine chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix in 2 tablespoons olive oil and a pinch of salt to moisten. The mixture should clump slightly but remain crumbly. (About 5 minutes)
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the lamb rack, fat side down first. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned all over. (10 minutes)
  4. Remove skillet from heat briefly. Brush the seared lamb evenly with Dijon mustard. (2 minutes)
  5. Press the herb and breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the mustard-coated side of the rack. (3 minutes)
  6. Transfer skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F / 54-57°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. (20 minutes)
  7. Remove lamb from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. (10 minutes)
  8. While lamb rests, mix chopped mint, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (5 minutes)
  9. Slice the rack into individual chops by cutting between the bones. Serve each chop with a spoonful of mint gremolata on top or on the side. Enjoy immediately! (2 minutes)

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect medium-rare doneness. Press the herb crust firmly onto the mustard-coated lamb to help it stick. Let the lamb rest after roasting to keep it juicy. For gluten-free, substitute panko with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Avoid over-roasting to prevent dryness. The gremolata can be made ahead and kept chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: rack of lamb, herb crust, mint gremolata, easy lamb recipe, dinner party, special occasion, quick lamb recipe, gluten-free option