Here’s a high-protein, bodybuilder-friendly recipe for Lamb Chops with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Asparagus
a flavorful, nutrient-dense meal packed with protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats to fuel muscle growth and recovery!
Ingredients
For the Lamb Chops:
- 4 lamb loin chops (about 6 oz each, trimmed of excess fat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped, or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (diced into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Lamb Chops:
- Rub lamb chops with olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook the Asparagus:
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add to the oven during the last 10–12 minutes of the sweet potatoes’ cook time.
4. Grill or Pan-Sear the Lamb Chops:
- Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
- Cook lamb chops for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp: 145°F/63°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
5. Assemble the Meal:
- Serve lamb chops with roasted sweet potatoes and asparagus.
Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~550-600 kcal
- Protein: ~45g (lamb)
- Carbs: ~40g (sweet potatoes + asparagus)
- Fats: ~25g (lamb + olive oil)
Why This Meal is Great for Bodybuilders
- Iron-Rich Protein: Lamb provides heme iron, zinc, and B vitamins for energy and muscle repair.
- Complex Carbs: Sweet potatoes offer sustained energy and fiber for digestion.
- Nutrient-Dense Greens: Asparagus is rich in folate, vitamins A/C, and antioxidants.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and lamb fat support hormone production and satiety.
Pro Tips
- Meal Prep: Double the lamb chops and roast extra veggies for weekday lunches.
- Lower Carbs: Swap sweet potatoes for roasted cauliflower or Brussels sprouts.
- Boost Flavor: Marinate lamb in mint, lemon juice, and garlic for a Mediterranean twist.
- Extra Protein: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt tzatziki or a hard-boiled egg.
Enjoy this gourmet, protein-packed meal to fuel your gains and satisfy your taste buds! 🐑🍠💪