Greek Grilled Lamb Chops Recipe

Short Description

Perfectly grilled lamb chops seasoned with oregano and lemon, served alongside a fresh Mediterranean-style salad—simple, elegant, and bursting with bright flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Greek flavors: oregano, lemon, and mint
• Juicy, flavorful lamb finished with zest of fresh lemon
• Cool, crisp salad with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and mint
• Quick to grill and ideal for light yet satisfying meals

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

The Lamb

• 8 lamb chops (3 oz each, about 1–1½ inches thick)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 lemon (for squeezing over chops after grilling)

The Salad

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, quartered
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh mint

Directions

The Lamb

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season both sides of each lamb chop with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Press gently to adhere.
3. Place the chops on the hot grill and cook for about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness (adjust time for preferred doneness).
4. Transfer cooked chops to a plate and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over them.

The Salad

1. In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and Kalamata olives.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then add the sliced fresh mint. Gently stir to combine.
3. Plate the lamb chops (2 per person) and top with a scoop of the tomato-cucumber salad just before serving.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: Serves 4 people (2 lamb chops per person with salad)
• Prep Time: ~10 minutes (for seasoning and salad preparation)
• Cook Time: ~8 minutes on the grill
• Total Time: About 18 minutes

Variations

• Marinate the lamb chops in olive oil, lemon zest, oregano, and garlic for extra flavor
• Swap dried oregano for fresh oregano or rosemary if available
• Add feta crumbles or sliced red onion to the salad for more dimension
• Brush the herbs and garlic onto the lamb before grilling for aromatic boost
• Serve with a side of warm pita, tzatziki, or grilled vegetables

Storage/Reheating

• Leftover lamb chops are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently on the grill or stovetop over medium heat to preserve juiciness—avoid microwaving to maintain texture
• Salad is best served fresh and not suited for storing overnight

FAQs

1. How do I know when lamb chops are done?

Cook for about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use an instant-read thermometer: 130–135 °F for medium-rare, 140–145 °F for medium.

2. Can I grill without a gas or charcoal grill?

Yes—you can pan-sear in a preheated cast iron skillet over medium-high heat using a bit of oil.

3. Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely—fresh rosemary or thyme pairs well, or use a herb mix like Herbes de Provence.

4. Can I grill the salad toppings?

Grilled cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices add a smoky touch—just don’t overcook to avoid losing crispness.

5. Is it better to slice lamb thin or serve whole?

Serve the whole chops for aesthetics, or slice off the bone and serve thinly for easier eating.

6. What wine pairs with this dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complement the lemon and herb flavors well.

7. Can I skip mint in the salad?

Yes—parsley or basil work nicely as substitutes if mint isn’t available.

8. Do I need to pat the lamb dry before seasoning?

Yes—patting dry ensures better sear and reduces flare-ups on the grill.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Certainly—grill in batches or use two pans; just ensure even spacing for even cooking.

10. Can I add heat to the salad?

Yes—toss in thinly sliced chili pepper or a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Greek Grilled Lamb Chops recipe combines the simplicity of grilled meat with the brightness of a fresh tomato-cucumber salad. Prepared in under 20 minutes, it brings together herbal, citrus, and savory notes for a memorable, Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

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