Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb to Pair with the Impressionist Pinot Noir

For a festive and impressive Christmas dinner, try this Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb. With a flavourful crust made from fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs, this dish is both elegant and satisfying. The lamb’s natural richness pairs beautifully with the aromatic herb crust, creating a memorable main course that’s perfect for special holiday gatherings. Simple to prepare yet sophisticated in presentation, this recipe is sure to elevate your holiday meal.

Recipe: Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

This Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is seasoned to perfection and roasted until tender, juicy, and coated with a deliciously crisp herb crust. It’s a stunning main dish that will add sophistication to your Christmas feast.

Ingredients

• 1 rack of lamb (about 8 ribs)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh rosemary and thyme, chopped
• Olive oil (for brushing and mixing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rack of Lamb: Preheat your oven to 200°C. Season the lamb rack generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Lamb: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil. Sear the lamb rack until browned on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Brush with Mustard: While the lamb is still warm, brush it evenly with Dijon mustard. This will help the herb crust adhere and add a tangy flavour.
4. Prepare the Herb Crust: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped rosemary and thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil until the mixture is moist and crumbly.
5. Crust the Lamb: Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the lamb rack, covering it evenly to create a thick crust.
6. Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (an internal temperature of 60°C for medium-rare).
7. Let Rest and Serve: Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing into individual chops. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Tips for the Perfect Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

• Choose Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme provide a more vibrant flavour than dried herbs, especially in the crust.
• Sear for Extra Flavour: Searing the lamb before roasting locks in flavour and creates a rich, caramelised exterior.
• Resting is Essential: Allowing the lamb to rest after roasting helps retain its juiciness, making each bite tender and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb pairs beautifully with classic side dishes that complement its rich, herbaceous flavours:

• Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes: Both provide a hearty, comforting base for the lamb.
• Sautéed green beans or asparagus: Adds a pop of green and balances the richness of the lamb.
• Buttery garlic mushrooms: The earthy mushrooms pair well with the lamb’s herb crust.
• Warm, crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.

Arrange the sliced lamb chops on a large serving platter and garnish with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for an elegant presentation.

Pairing with Millon Wines' The Impressionist Pinot Noir

For a perfect pairing, serve this Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Millon Wines’ The 2022 Impressionist Pinot Noir. The wine’s delicate red berry notes and balanced acidity complement the rich flavours of the lamb and the aromatic herb crust, while its smooth finish enhances the savoury taste of the meat. Slightly chilled, this Pinot Noir adds a sophisticated touch to your Christmas meal.

Enjoy this Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb as a stunning centrepiece for your holiday feast. With its savoury herb crust, tender meat, and perfect pairing with Millon Wines’ Impressionist Pinot Noir, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and make your Christmas dinner truly unforgettable.