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Air Fryer Lamb Cutlets With Mint Pesto - Crispy, Juicy, and Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8–10 lamb cutlets (rib chops), about 1 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 grated garlic clove
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1 packed cup fresh mint leaves (stems removed)
  • 1/2 packed cup fresh parsley (optional, for balance)
  • 1 small garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (or almonds/walnuts)
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (plus zest from 1/2 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional for richness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey (or a pinch of sugar, to round the mint)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Prep the lamb: Pat the cutlets dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and oregano until evenly coated. Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes while you make the pesto.
  2. Make the mint pesto: In a food processor, add mint, parsley, garlic, nuts, lemon juice and zest, Parmesan (if using), and honey. Pulse, then stream in olive oil until you get a spoonable sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust with more lemon or oil as needed.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps sear the lamb.
  4. Arrange the cutlets: Place the lamb in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between pieces. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
  5. Cook: Air fry for 6–8 minutes total, flipping halfway. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F (54–57°C) when you pull them; they’ll rise a few degrees while resting.
  6. Rest: Transfer cutlets to a plate and rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
  7. Serve: Spoon mint pesto over the lamb or serve on the side. Add lemon wedges for extra brightness.