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Lamb Chops for Spring

By , About.com Guide

Pineapple Lamb Chops

Pineapple Lamb Chops

Linda Larsen
Lamb chops weren't something I ate as a child. My mother didn't like them, so she didn't serve them to us. When I got engaged, I found my husband's family ate lamb quite a bit, and I learned to love it.

Did you know that lamb is the oldest domesticated meat human beings eat? Lamb is meat from sheep that are less than one year old, which is why it so tender and sweet. When purchasing lamb, look for firm flesh that is evenly marbled with flecks of fat. Loin chops and rib chops are the most tender. Use fresh lamb within 3-4 days, or wrap it well and freeze up to 6 months.

Chops that are about 1" thick will take 7-11 minutes to broil to medium rare (145 degrees F). If you prefer medium doneness (160 degrees F), cook the chops for 9-14 minutes, turning once.

Since chops are very rich, serving them with a fruit sauce with added mint helps to cut that richness and adds another layer of flavor. I love this main dish, with the sweet and tender lamb surrounded with pineapple mint sauce. Serve this main dish with a beautiful gelatin salad and some easy rolls. For dessert, this elegant meal demands a special (but easy!) sweet, creamy chocolate pie.

Spring Lamb Menu

  • Pineapple Lamb Chops
    Pineapple, orange juice, honey, and chopped mint combine for a delicious sauce for tender lamb chops. This dish is so beautiful, and good for you too.
  • Honey Rolls
    These easy yeast rolls need no kneading! Their flavor is just spectacular, and the texture is perfect.
  • Roasted Asparagus
    Who doesn't love fresh and tender asparagus in the spring? This easy recipe is a great way to bring out its wonderful flavor.
  • Orange Cream Salad
    Make this beautiful salad ahead of time, and cut into squares to serve. The combination of mandarin oranges with the sweet custard topping is really delicious.
  • Updated Chocolate Mousse Pie
    Make this creamy, perfect chocolate mousse pie ahead of time, then serve it topped with a bit of whipped cream.

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