Bring Back The Romance Of Outdoor Grilling With This Valentine's Day Recipe

Valentine’s Day on Sunday, February 14th, is a worldwide celebration of love, but it often comes with the predictable trappings of overpriced chocolates and cliche bouquets. Perhaps it’s time to spice things up by taking the romantic gesture outdoors and firing up the grill. As curious as the origins of Valentine’s Day are, its modern-day celebrations could use a refreshing twist—like grilling a gourmet dish on your PGS Grill. History shows that this day began as a solemn Christian feast honoring the memory of Saint Valentine, with no mention of candy hearts or extravagant flowers. It wasn't until centuries later that the focus shifted to sugary indulgence rather than hearty, home-cooked meals. Why not return to the roots of this special occasion by preparing a romantic feast fit for a couple in love?

Imagine savoring a perfectly grilled meal under the stars, creating memories that go beyond the fleeting pleasure of chocolates. Let’s dive into a Valentine’s Day recipe that combines the charm of outdoor grilling with the elegance of traditional flavors.

Garlic & Mint Grilled Lamb Chops

Among the finest cuts of meat, lamb chops are a delicacy that every grill enthusiast dreams of mastering. When cooked to perfection, these chops exude rich, savory flavors that leave your taste buds craving more. However, lamb chops demand attention to detail. They are flirtatious in nature, enjoying the company of various herbs and spices. From thyme to oregano, they seem to never tire of experimenting with new pairings. But for this recipe, we’ll stick to a winning combination: garlic and mint.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/3 Cup of Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ Cup of Chopped Mint Leaves
• 3 Cloves of Garlic (Mince them finely)
• ½ Teaspoon of Black Pepper
• Sea Salt
• 10 Petite Rib Lamb Chops (Around 2 Pounds)

Steps To Prepare Lamb Chops

Begin by preheating your PGS Grill to medium heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, mint, and black pepper. Set aside. In a separate bowl, crush the garlic cloves and rub them generously onto the lamb chops. Once evenly coated, place the chops on a clean surface and brush both sides with the mint-oil mixture. Lightly season each chop with sea salt before placing them on the grill.

Grilling lamb chops is akin to nurturing a budding relationship—gentle yet intentional. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, ensuring they develop a golden crust while remaining juicy inside. Avoid flipping the chops too often; once is usually enough. The ideal lamb chop should feel slightly firm to the touch but still yield a bit of resistance. Medium-rare is where these chops truly shine. Remove them from the grill, brush lightly with extra mint oil, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides.

To complement the lamb chops, we’re pairing them with a side of grilled rosemary potatoes. This dish ties together the flavors of garlic and herbs, making it the perfect companion for your romantic evening.

Grilled Rosemary Potatoes

For this side dish, you’ll need:

• 1 Pound of Potatoes, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 Yellow Onion, diced into small cubes
• 5 Peeled and Chopped Garlic Cloves
• 2 Teaspoons of Crushed Rosemary
• 1 Teaspoon of Sea Salt
• ½ Teaspoon of Black Pepper
• 1 Teaspoon of Paprika
• 1 ½ Tablespoons of Virgin Olive Oil
• Aluminum Foil

Preparation Steps

Set your grill to medium heat. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, onion, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Once combined, add the potatoes and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle crushed rosemary over the seasoned potatoes and gently stir to distribute the herbs.

Now, prepare your aluminum foil. Create two 24-inch lengths and overlap them to form a "T." Place the seasoned potatoes in the center of the foil and fold the edges tightly to seal. Ensure there are no leaks, as this will trap the flavors and juices during grilling. Place the foil packet on the grill with the sealed edge facing up. Allow it to cook for about 20 minutes. Flip the packet carefully and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes. Return it to its original position and open it cautiously, as steam will escape quickly. The potatoes should be soft enough to pierce with a fork and have a light golden-brown hue. If they need to stay warm, reseal the foil or transfer them to a pot on the side burner.

Complete the Meal with Mint Sauce

While lamb chops and potatoes make a stellar duo, some couples might prefer a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors. A homemade mint sauce adds that special touch, making it irresistible even to those who aren’t fans of grilled meats. Here’s how to create it:

• ¼ Cup of Finely Chopped Mint Leaves
• ¼ Cup of Boiling Water
• 1 ½ Tablespoons of Cider Vinegar
• 3 Tablespoons of Sugar
• 1/3 Teaspoon of Sea Salt

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine sugar and mint leaves. Pour boiling water over the mixture and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add vinegar, salt, and any other desired ingredients, then cover the bowl. Allow the sauce to steep for about 20 minutes. Serve warm with a decorative spoon for an added touch of elegance.

This Valentine’s Day, why not create a memorable meal that speaks volumes without uttering a single word? A well-planned feast, complete with a beautifully set table, fragrant flowers, and heartfelt conversation, can speak louder than any store-bought gift. Whether your loved one is a fan of outdoor grilling or prefers the comfort of a cozy dinner, this recipe ensures a night to remember. Rediscover the joy of cooking together and relish the flavors of love.