Lamb Loin With Mint Pesto

Ingredients

• 1/3 - 1/2 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/4 Cup Whole Blanched Almonds, Lightly Toasted
• 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 (2 Pound) Lamb Loins
• 3/4 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves, Washed And Patted Dry
• 1 1/4 Cups Fresh Mint Leaves
• 3 Medium Cloves Garlic
• Salt And Pepper
• 1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

Method

To Make The Pesto: Put the almonds, cheese (if using), and the olive oil in a food processor and pulse until pureed. Add the basil, mint, and garlic and process to a smooth texture, adding additional olive oil until the mixture is the consistancy of a thick sauce.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the flavors to meld. Taste for salt and pepper and add if needed. Serve the pesto or refrigerate up to 24 hours, bringing it back to room temperature before serving.

Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Remove lamb from the refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature. Rub with olive oil, and sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper. Place the lamb in the oven on a roasting rack for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 325 degrees and cook for about 20 - 25 minutes, or until medium rare (125 degrees internal temperature tested with a meat thermometer). Remove from the oven and let the lamb rest 10 minutes before slicing. To serve, slice into thick slices and drizzle a good helping of the mint pesto over each slice.

Buon Appetito!

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