Summer's here, and the grill's calling! Forget complicated recipes; tonight, we're making restaurant-quality pork steaks right in your backyard. This easy recipe delivers juicy, flavorful pork steaks every time, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. It's a healthy meal option, packed with protein, and ready in under 30 minutes – the epitome of homemade cooking at its best.
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-inch thick) boneless pork loin steaks (about 1 pound total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for grilling
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Steaks:
- Pat them dry: Begin by patting the pork steaks dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear on the grill.
- Season generously: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated. This simple seasoning blend brings out the natural flavors of the pork.
Grilling the Pork Steaks:
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill time: Place the pork steaks on the preheated grill grates. Grill for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to dry pork. If using rosemary, add the sprigs to the grill alongside the steaks during the last minute or two of cooking for an aromatic touch.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the pork steaks from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pork.
Tips for the Best Grilled Pork Steaks:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the pork steaks enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, grill them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork steaks are cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker steaks will require longer grilling times. Always check the internal temperature to gauge doneness.
Variations:
- Spicy Pork Steaks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning blend for a kick.
- Citrusy Pork Steaks: Add the zest and juice of one lemon or lime to the marinade for a bright and refreshing flavor.
- Herb-infused Pork Steaks: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
This delicious and easy recipe for grilled pork steaks is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion! It's a testament to how delicious and straightforward homemade cooking can be. Try it tonight and impress your family and friends with this best recipe!