Handful new crop potatoes cooked till tender in salted water with a little olive oil
Handful fine beans cooked in salted water until tender
Selection heritage tomatoes eyes removed & cut into wedges
1 shallot finely diced
Black olives
Capers
Salted Anchovies cut in half lengthways
Cold pressed olive oil
Lemon
Sea salt & cracked black pepper
Method for the lamb
Bring the lamb to room temperature then rub with olive oil and sea salt.
Take a heavy based frying pan, or BBQ set for direct grilling, and over a high heat sear the lamb on all sides, reducing the heat or moving to a cool zone on the BBQ once seared. Continue to cook turning frequently for approximately 12 to 15 minutes in total, reaching a core temperature of 54°C before resting.
Method for the Nicoise
To start prepare the garnish.
Layer the potatoes and tomatoes in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sea salt and cracked pepper.
Scatter over the diced shallot, zest and juice of a lemon and mix well.
Arrange on a plate topped with the beans, olives, a few capers and slivers of anchovy.
Carve the lamb and sit on top of the Nicoise salad, finish with halves of soft-boiled egg.
To serve
This dish is complete. My choice is to serve alongside a fresh, vibrant Pinot Noir, which will sit nicely alongside the sweet lamb and spring flavours.