Grilled Lamb Skewers with Mint Pesto

Transform simple lamb skewers into a fine dining experience with our Grilled Lamb Skewers with Mint Pesto. This dish combines perfectly grilled, tender lamb with the refreshing flavors of mint pesto, elevated by thoughtful plating and vibrant garnishes. Whether you're impressing guests or indulging yourself, this recipe is an artistic balance of rustic charm and refined elegance.

Ingredients:

For the Lamb Skewers:

• 1 lb lamb loin or shoulder, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Mint Pesto:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts
• 1 clove garlic
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of half a lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Roasted cherry tomatoes (on the vine)
• Pomegranate seeds
• Fresh mint leaves
• Couscous or roasted garlic purée (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb:

   • In a bowl, toss the lamb cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Grill the Lamb Skewers:

   • Thread the marinated lamb onto skewers. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, ensuring they are charred on the outside and tender inside. Set aside to rest.

3. Make the Mint Pesto:

   • Combine mint leaves, parsley, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Blend while gradually adding olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, glossy consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Roast the Tomatoes:

   • Place cherry tomatoes on a baking tray, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until their skins blister slightly.

5. Plate the Dish:

   • On a rectangular slate or ceramic plate, spread a bold stroke of mint pesto using the back of a spoon or a pastry brush. Lay two grilled lamb skewers diagonally across the plate.
   • Add the roasted cherry tomatoes between the skewers and sprinkle pomegranate seeds around the plate for color. Optionally, include a small pile of fluffy couscous or a smear of roasted garlic purée for added texture.
   • Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an herbaceous touch.

Tips for Success:

• For extra flavor, grill the lamb over charcoal to add a smoky aroma.
• To create perfect mint pesto, pulse the ingredients lightly to retain some texture rather than over-blending.