Greek Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you love tender, flavorful meat with a fresh and tangy twist, then you are going to adore this Greek Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce Recipe. The lamb chops soak up a beautifully herbal marinade that blends garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon, then grill to juicy perfection. Paired with a cooling, vibrant mint yogurt sauce, this dish sings with Mediterranean magic and is perfect for impressing friends or elevating a weekend meal into something unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, coming together in a simple yet harmonious way to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From fragrant herbs to the creamy mint sauce, here’s what you’ll want to gather before you begin.

• 8 lamb rib chops: Choose chops with a nice layer of fat for juiciness and flavor.
• 1/3 cup olive oil: The base of the marinade, adds richness and helps infuse flavors.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced): Elevates the marinade with pungent warmth and aroma.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the marinade.
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped): Brings piney, woody notes that complement the lamb beautifully.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped): Adds earthiness and depth.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds classic Mediterranean flavor and slight earthiness.
• 1 lemon (zest & juice): Zest brightens the marinade while juice tenderizes the meat.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Seasoning that brings out all the other flavors.
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a mild heat and spice.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the mint sauce, adding tang and richness.
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (chopped): The star of the sauce that brings freshness and vibrancy.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Gives the sauce a subtle kick.
• 1 lemon (juiced): Brightens and balances the creamy sauce.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the sauce’s flavors.
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a little spice to the sauce.
• 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a gentle heat kick.

How to Make Greek Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb Chops

Start by patting the lamb chops dry with paper towels—this helps them brown better when cooking. Carefully remove the membrane from the back and slice off the fat cap to prevent flare-ups on the grill. If you have a rack of lamb, slice it between each bone to create 8 individual, perfectly sized chops.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, thyme, dried oregano, lemon zest and juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. This marinade is where all the magic begins as the bright citrus mingles with herbaceous notes and pungent garlic, perfectly complementing the natural richness of the lamb.

Step 3: Marinate the Lamb

Place your chops inside a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour in the marinade. Massage the bag or gently toss to ensure each chop is generously coated. Then pop the lamb in the fridge to soak up all those flavors for at least 2 hours or even overnight if you have time. Don’t forget to save ¼ cup of the marinade for later—it serves as a juicy finishing touch!

Step 4: Make the Mint Yogurt Sauce

While the lamb marinates, combine plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh mint, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne (if you like a bit of heat) in a bowl. Stir everything together until smooth, then cover and chill it in the fridge for those flavors to meld. This refreshing sauce will cut through the richness of the lamb with creamy brightness and a cooling minty finish.

Step 5: Grill the Lamb Chops

When you’re ready to cook, bring the lamb chops out of the fridge and let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes—this helps them cook evenly. Heat your grill or cast iron skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the lamb chops for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, aiming for a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Transfer the grilled lamb chops to a platter and let them rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the top for an extra burst of flavor, and serve alongside a generous dollop of your cooling mint yogurt sauce.

How to Serve Greek Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped mint or rosemary over the plated lamb chops not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the fresh, herbal aromas. A simple wedge of lemon on the side invites diners to add a bright squeeze of juice whenever they like.

Side Dishes

This meal pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired sides. Think fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and lemon zest, roasted baby potatoes with garlic and oregano, or a vibrant Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. These sides balance the savory richness of the lamb with fresh and bright notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, arrange the lamb chops fan-like on a large platter with spoonfuls of mint yogurt sauce dotted around. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens if you have them to add that extra wow factor. Serving the chops on a wooden board with small bowls of sauce and sides encourages a casual, communal feel perfect for sharing with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the lamb and sauce separately to preserve the flavors and textures.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked lamb chops by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. For best quality, consume within 2 months. The mint yogurt sauce is best made fresh, so avoid freezing it as it may separate.

Reheating

To reheat lamb chops, warm them gently in a low oven or covered skillet to avoid drying out the meat. Reheat the mint yogurt sauce separately at room temperature or briefly in the microwave on low power to maintain its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of lamb for this recipe?

Absolutely! While lamb rib chops are perfect for grilling and quick cooking, you can also use lamb loin chops or even a boneless leg cut if sliced appropriately. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is the mint yogurt sauce essential?

The mint yogurt sauce is a classic accompaniment that beautifully balances the richness of the lamb with its fresh, tangy flavors. You can enjoy the lamb without it, but it truly elevates the dish.

How long should I marinate the lamb?

At minimum, marinate the lamb for 2 hours to allow the herbs and lemon to tenderize and flavor the meat. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your Dijon mustard doesn’t contain gluten additives. It’s perfect for gluten-sensitive diets.

What wine pairs well with Greek lamb chops?

Try a medium-bodied red like a Syrah/Shiraz or a Grenache. Their fruity, spicy notes complement the herbaceous marinade and the lamb’s richness beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Greek Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce Recipe that makes any meal feel like a celebration. The combination of fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and that cooling, creamy sauce will keep you coming back time and time again. Give this recipe a try—once you taste it, it’s bound to become a new favorite to share with your friends and family.

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