Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb
This Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb recipe delivers tender, juicy lamb enhanced with a crunchy, flavorful pistachio crust. Perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions, this dish combines the rich taste of lamb with aromatic herbs and a nutty crust that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Gluten Free, Low-Carb, Keto
Meat
- 1 fresh 8-bone rack of lamb, trimmed and frenched
Crust
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Other
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt, to season lamb generously
- Black pepper, to season lamb generously
- Olive oil, for searing lamb (approx. 1-2 tablespoons)
- Prepare the lamb: Pat the rack of lamb dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper, then let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
- Make the pistachio crust: In a bowl, combine finely chopped pistachios, minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary and thyme, and a pinch of salt. Stir in olive oil until the mixture binds together into a thick, cohesive crust.
- Sear the lamb: Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Sear the lamb rack on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, to lock in juices and form a crust base.
- Brush with Dijon mustard: Remove the lamb from heat and brush the entire rack evenly with Dijon mustard. This adds flavor and helps the pistachio crust adhere.
- Apply the pistachio crust: Press the pistachio mixture firmly onto the mustard-coated lamb, covering all exposed meat surfaces except the bones for an elegant look.
- Roast the lamb: Place the lamb rack on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Bring lamb to room temperature before cooking for even roasting and juicier meat.
- Don’t skip searing; it enhances flavor and texture.
- Use fresh rosemary and thyme for the best aromatic flavor.
- Finely chop pistachios for better adhesion and an even crust.
- Rest lamb after roasting to keep it juicy and tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 rack (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: pistachio crusted rack of lamb, rack of lamb recipe, pistachio lamb, easy lamb recipe, elegant dinner, gluten free lamb dish