Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coastline with every single bite. Our Lamb Chops with Herbed Feta Orzo isn't just a meal—it's a culinary journey that combines tender, perfectly seared lamb with a creamy, herb-infused pasta that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is your golden ticket to gastronomic heaven!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 lamb chops
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Measure out 2 cups of orzo pasta, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Set these aside for later use.
- Season the lamb chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned lamb chops to the skillet.
- Sear the lamb chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer for best results; the internal temperature should read 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, remove the lamb chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.
- While the lamb chops are resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon juice to the orzo. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- To serve, place a generous portion of the herbed feta orzo on each plate, and top with the rested lamb chops. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Lamb Chops with Herbed Feta Orzo, a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for any occasion!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: For perfectly cooked lamb chops, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F for medium-rare, which ensures juicy, tender meat.
- Let Meat Rest: Always let your lamb chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite incredibly succulent.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook orzo al dente by tasting it during cooking. It should have a slight bite but not be hard or mushy.
- Flavor Boost: Toast your feta and herbs briefly in the pan after cooking the lamb to enhance their aromatics.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding lamb chops to achieve a beautiful, crispy sear.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh parsley for the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Dried herbs just can't compare!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 810kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 52g
Fat: 46g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 185mg
