Parsley-Crusted Lamb: A Flavorful Delight

Crusty Rack of Lamb With Parsley

🕒 Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🥘 Recipe Category: Lamb/Sheep
🔍 Keywords: Vegetable, Meat, Canadian, Spring, Weeknight, Roast, Oven, < 4 Hours

Description:

This delightful recipe for Crusty Rack of Lamb with Parsley originates from Madam Benoit’s Lamb Cookbook, making its way into Edith Adam’s cottage column in the Vancouver Sun Paper about 25 years ago. Since then, it has become a cherished dish on many tables, including mine, gracing it at least once a year. The lamb develops a tasty, crusty exterior that is sure to earn you raves from your dinner guests. The addition of fresh parsley perfectly complements the lamb, enhancing its flavors. It’s a recipe that promises culinary success and satisfaction, leaving you craving more with each savory bite. Please note that the preparation time listed excludes the 2 hours of refrigeration and the 1 hour resting time.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of lamb
• 2 cups fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 cup basil, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup lite olive oil

Instructions:

1. Trim excess fat: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the racks of lamb, ensuring they are clean and ready for seasoning.

2. Prepare seasoning mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped parsley, basil, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and lite olive oil. Mix all the ingredients well until they form a cohesive mixture. Adjust the amount of olive oil if necessary to ensure the mixture holds together.

3. Season the lamb: Spread half of the seasoning mixture evenly over each rack of lamb, pressing firmly to ensure it adheres to the meat.

4. Refrigerate: Wrap the seasoned racks of lamb tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for 1-2 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld and infuse into the lamb.

5. Bring to room temperature: About an hour before roasting, remove the lamb from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This ensures more even cooking.

6. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Roast the lamb: Place the seasoned racks of lamb on a rack set in a shallow roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Be careful not to overcook the lamb.

8. Check internal temperature: To ensure the lamb is cooked to your liking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium doneness, the thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the meat.

9. Rest and serve: Once the lamb reaches the desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Serve the crusty rack of lamb with parsley alongside your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

This exquisite dish is perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners when you want to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. With its flavorful crust and tender meat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rave reviews that accompany each serving of this delicious Crusty Rack of Lamb with Parsley!