Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Mediterranean with our exquisite recipe for Mediterranean Pork Chops. This culinary masterpiece combines succulent pork chops with a delightful array of ingredients, including onions, garlic, green olives, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. With its vibrant colors, aromatic aromas, and harmonious blend of savory and tangy flavors, this dish transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, these Mediterranean Pork Chops are sure to impress your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine!
What is great about Mediterranean Pork Chops?
Burst of Mediterranean flavors: The combination of ingredients such as green olives, cherry tomatoes, onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs brings the vibrant and bold flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate. Each bite is a delightful explosion of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes that transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
Versatile and satisfying: These pork chops are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving a delicious and satisfying dish, these Mediterranean Pork Chops fit the bill. They can be paired with a wide range of sides, from roasted potatoes to couscous or a fresh green salad, allowing you to tailor the meal to your preferences.
Easy preparation and impressive presentation: While the flavors of this dish are impressive, the recipe itself is easy to follow. With simple cooking techniques and readily available ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, green olives, and fresh herbs make for an eye-catching presentation that is sure to impress your guests.
Tips
Quality ingredients: To achieve the best flavor, use high-quality pork chops and fresh ingredients such as ripe cherry tomatoes, pitted green olives, and aromatic herbs. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish.
Season generously: Don’t be shy when seasoning the pork chops. The combination of salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme adds depth and enhances the Mediterranean flavors. Ensure that both sides of the pork chops are evenly seasoned for maximum taste.
Sear for a flavorful crust: When sautéing the pork chops, make sure the skillet is hot enough to create a beautiful golden crust. The searing process locks in the juices, resulting in tender and juicy pork chops with a delicious caramelized exterior.
Let the flavors mingle: Allow the cherry tomatoes and green olives to cook together with the onions and garlic. This helps to infuse the sauce with their flavors, creating a rich and aromatic base for the pork chops.
Deglaze for extra flavor: Deglazing the skillet with chicken broth not only prevents the sauce from drying out but also adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. The broth helps to incorporate the delicious browned bits from the pork chops and vegetables, making the sauce truly exceptional.
Mediterranean Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients:
4 pork chops
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
Directions:
Season the pork chops: Sprinkle salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme on both sides of the pork chops. Rub the seasoning into the meat and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Sauté the pork chops: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until nicely browned. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and add the sliced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Add olives and cherry tomatoes: Add the sliced green olives and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften.
Deglaze the skillet: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to the sauce.
Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. If the sauce looks too dry, you can add a bit more chicken broth.
Return the pork chops: Place the pork chops back into the skillet, along with any juices that may have accumulated. Spoon some of the sauce over the pork chops.
Finish cooking: Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serve: Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Spoon the sauce with the olives, tomatoes, and onions over the pork chops. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Enjoy: Serve the Mediterranean Pork Chops hot with your favorite side dishes such as roasted potatoes, couscous, or a green salad. Enjoy!
Suggested Pairing
The most ideal wine pairing for Mediterranean Pork Chops would be a medium-bodied red wine with fruity and herbaceous notes.
Here’s a recommendation - Chianti Classico.
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