Grilled Lamb Chops with Roasted Garlic

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
4 thyme sprigs
1 garlic clove, minced, plus 2 heads of garlic, halved crosswise
2 teaspoons chopped rosemary leaves
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
8 lamb loin chops
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
White Bean Puree, for serving

HOW TO MAKE THIS RECIPE:

1. In a large, shallow dish, combine the 1/4 cup of olive oil with the thyme, minced garlic, rosemary and cumin. Add the lamb chops and turn to coat with the marinade. Refrigerate overnight.

2. Preheat the oven to 350°. Set the halved heads of garlic cut side up on a large sheet of foil and drizzle with oil. Wrap the garlic in the foil and roast for 1 hour, until tender.

3. Light a grill. Remove the chops from the marinade; discard the thyme and scrape off the garlic. Season the chops with salt and pepper and grill over moderate heat until lightly charred and medium-rare, 5 minutes per side. Serve the chops with the roasted garlic and White Bean Puree.

SUGGESTED PAIRING:
Syrah is a classic partner for lamb—its black pepper and meaty notes taste great with gamey meats (it's good with goat, too). Southern France is Syrah's home, and there are still great bargains to be found there.