Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe that doesn't sacrifice flavor? Look no further! This pork chop rosemary recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or a more relaxed weekend dinner. It's packed with fresh rosemary flavor, perfectly cooked pork chops, and is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe is a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
Season and Marinate (Optional):
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this mixture all over the pork chops. For extra flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer in the refrigerator.
Cooking the Pork Chops:
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature, resulting in steaming instead of searing; cook in batches if necessary.
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Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Serving:
- Serve the pork chops immediately with lemon wedges. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables complements this dish perfectly.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking pork chops in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to the perfect temperature and safe to eat.
- Let them rest: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking helps them retain their juices.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage.
- Pan-seared and finished in the oven: Sear the pork chops in the skillet as directed, then transfer them to a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) to finish cooking. This method ensures juicy and tender pork chops.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy pork chop rosemary recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!