📍 Where this dish comes from: Crete · Palace of Knossos
Discover the history of this region →
Discover the history of this region →
Greek lamb chops — loin chops or rib chops marinated with rosemary, garlic, and lemon — are one of those dishes that seem luxurious but are genuinely among the easiest things you can make. The key is a very hot grill, a confident hand, and restraint: a few minutes per side is all they need. Overcooked lamb is a crime. Pink, juicy, caramelized lamb is everything.
What You’ll Need
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420kcal
Ingredients
- 8 lamb loin chops or rib chops about 1 inch thick
- 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and cracked black pepper
- Fresh mint and lemon for serving
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, juice, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Coat lamb chops on all sides. Marinate at least 1 hour at room temperature or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Heat grill to screaming hot. Grill chops 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare — the internal temperature should reach 135F (57C).
- Rest 5 minutes. The juices redistribute and the lamb becomes even more tender.
- Serve with fresh mint leaves, lemon wedges, and your best tzatziki.
Nutrition
Serving: 2chops | Calories: 420kcal | Protein: 34g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 0.5g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Health Benefits
- Lamb is one of the most nutritionally complete proteins available — rich in heme iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and selenium, plus a higher ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fats than most meats due to grass-feeding.
- Rosemary contains carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid with documented anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
- A plate of lamb chops is as good nutritionally as it is at the table.
Pairs Well With
- Maroulosalata — Greek Romaine Salad with Dill
- Spanakorizo — Keto Spinach Rice