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Perfect Mini Lamb Chops Recipe with Herbed Couscous and Mint Yogurt for Two

mini lamb chops - featured image

A quick and flavorful recipe featuring tender mini lamb chops served with herbed couscous and a refreshing mint yogurt sauce, perfect for an intimate dinner for two.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 mini lamb chops, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (170g) quick-cooking couscous
  • 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup (120g) full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring 1 cup (240ml) of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
  2. Stir in 1 cup (170g) of couscous, cover tightly, and remove from heat.
  3. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and stir in chopped parsley, cilantro, lemon zest, lemon juice, ½ teaspoon cumin (if using), and a drizzle of olive oil. Set aside and keep warm.
  4. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
  5. Pat the mini lamb chops dry with paper towels.
  6. Rub both sides with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  8. Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until very hot (about 3-4 minutes).
  9. Add the lamb chops in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan.
  10. Sear for about 3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time for preferred doneness.
  11. Transfer the chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes.
  12. Divide the herbed couscous between two plates, arrange the lamb chops on top, and dollop the mint yogurt sauce on the side.
  13. Garnish with a sprig of mint or extra lemon zest if desired.

Notes

For dairy-free, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut-based yogurt. For gluten-free, substitute couscous with quinoa or cauliflower rice. Let lamb rest after searing to keep it juicy. Avoid flipping chops repeatedly to develop a good sear. Mint yogurt sauce can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini lamb chops, herbed couscous, mint yogurt, quick dinner, easy recipe, lamb recipe, date night meal, healthy lamb dish