Lamb isn’t often thought of beyond the Easter Sunday roast, but there are many reasons you’ll want to include it in your summer menu. According to naturopath Dr. Josh Axe, lamb is loaded with iron, B vitamins, protein, and zinc, making it a top option for those seeking clean nourishment. Lamb cooks quickly, meaning less time in the kitchen or over the grill. If you’re living (or thinking of trying out) a paleo or ketogenic lifestyle, here are 5 quick grass finished lamb recipes, perfect for summer meals, to get you started:

 

Lamb Shoulder Chops and Cardoons from The Nourished Caveman

This fast and simple recipe marinates chops in rosemary-garlic-olive oil for a less than an hour before they’re pan-fried in an iron skillet until their internal temperature reaches 125 degrees.

Cardoons look like big, scary celery but are in the sunflower family and were a favorite in American gardens up until the 19th century. Although it’s mostly been considered a weed since then, don’t be surprised if you come across it in a farmers’ market or even at your local grocery store. Challenging to prepare, the delicate artichoke-like flavor might make it worth your while.

Here the cardoons are simply boiled, drained, and tossed in with the lamb to absorb some of the fat and flavor.

 

Grilled Lamb Chops with Pomegranate from the Grilling Wino

These lamb ‘pops’ are treated to a spicy rub featuring ginger, garlic, and chipotle, then put on the grill over direct heat. As it cooks, the pops are basted in a sweet and tangy pomegranate-hoisin sauce. Fresh mint and cilantro, abundant in summer, garnish the pops and add a cooling note.

Lamb Skewers with Lemon and Feta from BHG.com

Take a little trip to Greece with these seasoned strips threaded onto skewers then served with mint, feta, red onion, and, of course, pita bread in this recipe.

 

Greek Lamb Burgers with Spinach and Red Onion Salad from Bon Appètit

If you prefer your lamb ground, skip the skewers but keep the feta and red onion in this great recipe. Spinach and mint are featured in these burgers served up on ciabatta rolls.

 

These recipes can be made from start to table in under 45 minutes. Serve with more fresh or grilled vegetables to enjoy the best of summer with minimal cooking. Make the first step for all your lamb recipes an order from Rafter W Ranch.