This rack of lamb with mint-basil pesto is a simple way to make dinner feel special without stress. The lamb roasts until tender and juicy, while the fresh pesto adds a bright green finish that smells clean and herby. You get crispy edges, soft meat, and a sauce that melts right in. This is one of those easy lamb recipes that looks fancy but feels calm to cook. If you enjoy lamb meals that are fresh, balanced, and full of flavor, this recipe is worth saving for later.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of lamb, about 8 ribs, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 small lemon, zest and juice
- 1 third cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 third cup olive oil for pesto
- Optional pinch of red pepper flakes
Step by Step Instructions
1. Take the rack of lamb out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Preheat your oven to 400 F. Pat the lamb dry, then rub it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Press the seasoning into the meat.
3. Heat an oven safe pan over medium heat. Place the lamb fat side down and sear for about 3 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
4. Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 15 to 18 minutes for medium rare, or until the internal temperature reaches your liking.
5. While the lamb cooks, make the mint-basil pesto. Add basil, mint, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and olive oil to a food processor. Blend until smooth and bright green.
6. Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice between the bones and spoon the pesto over the top before serving.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Do not skip resting the lamb after roasting. Cutting too soon lets the juices escape. Avoid overcooking since rack of lamb is best when tender and slightly pink inside. Another mistake is using wet herbs for pesto. Always dry them well to keep the sauce fresh and smooth.
Tips For Success
Use a meat thermometer if you are unsure. For easy lamb recipes like this, simple tools make a big difference. If you want deeper flavor, season the lamb a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Let it warm up before cooking.
How To Serve
Serve this rack of lamb with mint-basil pesto alongside roasted potatoes, soft rice, or a light salad. It also pairs well with simple sides like green beans or warm bread. If you enjoy lamb chop dinner ideas, this dish fits right in. For another cozy lamb option, you might like this slow cooked pulled lamb recipe for casual meals.
Flavor Add In Ideas
You can add toasted pine nuts to the pesto for crunch. A small clove of raw garlic adds bite. For a Greek lamb recipes twist, mix in a little oregano and serve with lemon wedges. This keeps the dish fresh and lively without overpowering the lamb.
Rack of Lamb with Mint-Basil Pesto
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Take the rack of lamb out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the lamb dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Heat an oven-safe pan over medium heat. Sear the lamb fat-side down for 3 minutes, then flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
- Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches desired doneness.
- Meanwhile, make the pesto by blending basil, mint, lemon zest and juice, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes after cooking. Slice between the ribs and serve with spooned pesto on top.
Notes
Make Ahead And Storage
The pesto can be made one day ahead and stored in the fridge. Keep it covered with a thin layer of olive oil to stay green. Leftover lamb can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep it tender. If you enjoy planning lamb dishes ahead, this method works well.
FAQS
Can I use this recipe for other lamb cuts?
Yes. The pesto works well with lamb chops, lamb breast recipes, or even ground lamb recipes for dinner like patties.
What if I do not like mint?
You can use all basil or mix basil with parsley. The flavor stays fresh and clean.
Is this good for holidays?
Yes. This dish feels special but is easy to manage. For larger meals, you may also enjoy this holiday leg of lamb recipe or classic lamb meals like this Greek lamb chops recipe.
Conclusion
This rack of lamb with mint-basil pesto brings simple steps and bold flavor together in one beautiful dish. It is perfect when you want lamb meals that feel fresh and calm to cook. If you love saving easy lamb recipes and sharing dinner ideas, pin this recipe and pass it along. Someone else will be glad you did.
For more comfort style lamb dishes, you can also explore this easy lamb stew recipe when you want something warm and cozy.