If you’re searching for a mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of pork chops with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, look no further. These Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops are a delightful fusion of ingredients that will transport your taste buds to sun-soaked shores and rustic tavernas. This one-skillet wonder not only delivers on taste but also creates its own delectable pan sauce that you won’t want to miss.

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Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops: A Burst of Flavor in One Skillet

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. The key is to ensure the pork chops are cooked to perfection, so be mindful of their thickness and starting temperature. Allowing the chops to reach room temperature before cooking and using an instant-read thermometer will help you achieve the best results.

To begin, you’ll season the boneless pork chops with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper, imparting a savory foundation of flavors. While the chops come to room temperature, whisk together a tantalizing mixture of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, and thyme in a large bowl. Toss in some Kalamata olives, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, and crumbled Feta cheese to create a vibrant medley of Mediterranean goodness.

Next, you’ll sauté thinly sliced red onions in olive oil until they soften and develop a caramelized hue. Then, add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet, cooking them until they turn a golden brown on both sides. At this point, it’s important to note that the safe cooking temperature for pork is 145°F, and an instant-read thermometer should register around 135°F when inserted into the thickest part of the chops.

Once the chops are perfectly cooked, it’s time to introduce the star of the show—the seasoned tomato and Feta mixture. Pour it into the skillet, nestling it among the chops, and cover the skillet while reducing the heat to medium-low. Let the flavors meld together for a couple of minutes, allowing the tomatoes to warm through and the Feta cheese to melt into creamy perfection.

Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to further develop. Uncover the skillet and serve the Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops immediately, garnishing them with freshly chopped parsley if desired. The dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, so feel free to unleash your creativity and choose your favorites.

With their vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and explosion of flavors, these Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops are a true feast for the senses. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

The Versatility of Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops

One of the wonderful aspects of the Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops recipe is its versatility. While the dish stands out on its own, it also offers opportunities for personalization and experimentation, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

Vegetable Medley: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables into the dish. Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant can add a delightful texture and a burst of freshness. You can either replace the tomatoes with your chosen vegetables or add them alongside for a vibrant and colorful presentation.
Herbaceous Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to enhance the flavors. Fresh basil, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of dried mint can bring a unique twist to the dish. Don’t be afraid to explore the herb aisle and let your taste buds guide you.
Mediterranean Grain Salad: Serve the Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops alongside a refreshing grain salad. Toss cooked quinoa or couscous with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light and satisfying accompaniment.
Creamy Side Dish: If you enjoy creamy textures, consider pairing the pork chops with a creamy side dish. Mashed potatoes, cauliflower puree, or even a creamy polenta can provide a luscious base that complements the robust flavors of the pork and Mediterranean toppings.
Spicy Kick: For those who appreciate a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the tomato and Feta mixture. This will infuse the dish with a subtle spiciness that balances beautifully with the other flavors.
Citrus Zest: Enhance the brightness of the dish by adding a touch of citrus zest to the pork chops. Lemon, orange, or even lime zest can add a refreshing twist and elevate the overall taste.

Remember, cooking is an art, and recipes serve as a canvas for your creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own. With its robust flavors and easy preparation, the Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops recipe lends itself to countless variations, ensuring that each time you make it, you can create a unique and personalized culinary experience.

So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let your imagination guide you as you explore the world of possibilities that the Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops recipe offers. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and relish the satisfaction of creating a dish that is as delicious as it is adaptable. Bon appétit!

Smothered Mediterranean Pork Chops: A Burst of Flavor in One Skillet

Recipe by Easy Clean RecipesCourse: MainCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Ingredients

4 6-oz. boneless pork chops
½ t. garlic powder
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ c. extra virgin olive oil, divided
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1-2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 t. dried oregano
½ t. dried thyme
¼ c. Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1 c. cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
3 oz. Feta cheese, crumbled
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 T. fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Remove pork chops from refrigerator and pat dry with a paper towel. Lightly season both sides of each chop with the garlic powder, plus salt and black pepper, as desired. Set aside.
Whisk together two tablespoons olive oil with the fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme in a large bowl. Add the Kalamata olives, tomatoes, and Feta cheese and toss to combine. Set aside.
Add one tablespoon olive oil to a large nonstick skillet set over medium heat. Add the red onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and starts to develop some color, approximately 4-5 minutes.
Add the remaining olive oil and the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Cooking until the chops are golden brown on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.

Note: The safe cooking temperature for pork is 145°F. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the chops should read approximately 135°F at this point.
Pour the seasoned tomato and Feta mixture into the skillet and nestle it in amongst the chops. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 2 minutes, or until the tomatoes and olives are warmed through and the Feta starts to melt.
Remove skillet from heat and rest for 5 minutes. Remove cover and serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley, if desired, and your choice of sides. Enjoy!

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