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Lamb Chops Scottadito with Charred Cherry Tomatoes

This elegant lamb chops scottadito with charred cherry tomatoes is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that focuses on fresh herbs and lean protein. By pounding the lamb chops thinly—true to the Italian 'scottadito' style, meaning 'burnt fingers'—the meat cooks quickly over a high heat, resulting in a delicious char while remaining tender. The marinade of aromatic rosemary and pungent garlic infuses the lamb with a deep, savoury flavour that perfectly complements the sweetness of the warm, blistered tomatoes.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this recipe prioritises heart-healthy fats from olive oil and remains naturally low in carbohydrates. It is a wonderful choice for a quick midweek dinner or a lighter weekend barbecue, offering a sophisticated meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted courgettes for a complete, well-balanced plate.

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Ingredients for Lamb Chops Scottadito with Charred Cherry Tomatoes

  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 120ml finely chopped rosemary

  • 60ml olive oil, plus more for drizzling

  • 12 lamb rib chops (about 1.0kg total)

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 450g cherry tomatoes, preferably on the vine

Combine garlic, rosemary, and 60ml oil in a large bowl. Working one at a time, pound lamb chops between 2 sheets of plastic wrap to about 1/4" thick; trim any excess fat. Season with salt and pepper and add to marinade; turn to coat. Cover and chill at least 2 hours and up to 1 day.

Prepare a grill for medium-high heat. Remove lamb chops from marinade and wipe off marinade. Grill lamb chops, turning often and moving around on grill as needed, until charred on both sides, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a platter.

Drizzle tomatoes with oil; season with salt and pepper. Grill in a grill basket or large cast-iron skillet until lightly charred and blistered, about 4 minutes.

Serve tomatoes alongside lamb.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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