Mediterranean-style pork chops are a flavorful and satisfying dish that incorporates ingredients commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine, such as olives, tomatoes, and herbs. Here’s a recipe for Mediterranean pork chops:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato mixture.
- Sprinkle the sliced Kalamata olives, fresh basil, and fresh parsley over the pork chops and tomato mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature reaches 145°F or 63°C).
- Optional: During the last 5 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the pork chops for added flavor.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Mediterranean pork chops hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
These Mediterranean pork chops are delicious served with couscous, rice, or a simple green salad. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean right at home!
