You have two hours before your guests arrive. You want to make something spectacular, but you're starting from scratch. Don't panic! It takes minutes to make this simple marinade. Rub it on the chops and set them aside, ready to be grilled just before serving time. Add a salad, mashed potatoes, or Crusty Russet Potatoes with Coriander, and you'll have an elegant meal. Then go arrange the flowers or sit down with a glass of wine, happy in the knowledge that your dinner guests will be properly impressed.

In a bowl large enough to hold the chops, mix together the ginger, garlic, salt, cayenne, cumin, coriander, and turmeric to form a thick, slightly dry paste. Rub the chops well with this mixture and set aside to marinate for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Sear the lamb chops to the desired doneness, 4 to 5 minutes on each side for rare. You may also grill these chops on an outdoor BBQ grill over high heat. Let rest briefly before serving.