Surf and Turf: Grilled Lamb Chop with Shrimp, Asparagus & Saffron Rice
A luxurious surf-and-turf entrée featuring a perfectly grilled lamb chop paired with smoky seared shrimp, tender asparagus spears, and golden saffron-infused rice—bold, balanced, and restaurant-worthy.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Halal
- 2 lamb rib chops
- 6 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (for shrimp)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- For the Saffron Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small pinch saffron threads
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
- Prepare the Saffron Rice: In a small bowl, soak saffron in 2 tablespoons warm water for 5 minutes. In a saucepan, melt butter and add rice. Stir for 1 minute. Add broth, saffron water, and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until fluffy.
- Season and Grill Lamb Chops: Rub lamb chops with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side (for medium-rare) or until desired doneness. Let rest.
- Sear the Shrimp: In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Add lemon zest at the end.
- Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, sauté asparagus for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and Serve: On a plate, layer saffron rice, asparagus, grilled lamb chop, and shrimp. Serve hot and garnish with a drizzle of pan juices if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the lamb chops in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary for 1 hour before grilling.
- Use vegetable broth for a lighter or pescatarian-friendly saffron rice option.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a bold red, depending on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plated portion
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: surf and turf, lamb chop and shrimp, saffron rice, grilled lamb, seared shrimp, asparagus plate