Rising temperatures, more sun, and longer days mean one thing: lemonade season is just around the corner. And the next time the summer heat hands you lemons, the Post recommends you save a couple and enjoy this savory lamb dish.

Loin Chops with Lemon Honey Thyme Marinade

Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Marinate time: 4 hours or overnight
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 American Lamb chops (loin, rib, sirloin or shoulder)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, mustard, salt and pepper flakes. Over medium heat, bring to a slight simmer; remove from heat immediately. Cool. Set aside 1/4 of the marinade for later use.

2. Pierce lamb chops with a fork several times on all sides. Place chops in a plastic food storage bag; coat with marinade. Marinate at least 4 hours or overnight. Remove chops, discarding remaining marinade.

3. Cook times will vary depending on thickness of chops. For 1-inch chops, broil or grill chops over medium heat for approximately 4 to 6 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Or, pan-fry chops then transfer to a baking sheet; finish cooking at 400°F until desired doneness. Brush with warmed reserved marinade before serving.

Recipe and image provided by the American Lamb Board.