Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops

Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops Recipe - Authentic Italian Flavor

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of pork chops with a zesty herb seasoning blend. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

Italian-style pork chops have been a popular dish in Italian cuisine for centuries. The combination of garlic, herbs, and olive oil is a classic flavor profile that pairs perfectly with pork. This recipe puts a modern twist on the traditional dish by using a pre-made seasoning blend for added convenience.

Ingredients

4 (0.5-inch thick) pork chops
4 tsp McCormick ® garlic herb seasoning blend, divided
5 tbsp olive oil, divided
8 cups salad greens
1 cup chopped tomato
0.25 cup thinly sliced red onion
2 tbsp white balsamic or white wine vinegar

How to prepare

Sprinkle 3 tsp of seasoning blend over the pork chops and set them aside.
Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add the pork chops and cook for 8 minutes or until desired doneness, turning them once.
In a large bowl, toss the salad greens, tomato, and onion together.
Mix the remaining 3 tbsp of olive oil, vinegar, and the remaining seasoning blend.
Pour the mixture over the salad and toss well to coat.
Divide the salad among 4 serving plates.
Top each plate with 1 pork chop.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Try using different seasoning blends or marinades to change up the flavor profile of the pork chops.
Substitute chicken or beef for the pork chops for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the pork chops generously with the seasoning blend for maximum flavor.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork chops are cooked to the proper internal temperature of 145°F.

- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-searing the pork chops in olive oil ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of vinegar in place of white balsamic or white wine vinegar.

- Swap out the salad greens for your favorite leafy greens or vegetables.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork chops in the seasoning blend ahead of time for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pork chops with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops with a glass of red wine or a light beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the pork chops in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 7g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 24g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and vitamins, while being relatively low in carbohydrates and fats.

Summary

Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops is a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to impress. With a zesty herb seasoning blend and a side of fresh salad, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious taste of Italian cuisine with this easy-to-make pork chop recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops. It was a cool autumn day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had picked up at a yard sale. The pages were yellowed with age, and the binding was starting to come loose, but the recipes inside were a treasure trove of culinary delights.

As I perused the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe that caught my attention. It was for Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops, and the ingredients listed were simple yet flavorful. I could almost taste the savory garlic and fragrant herbs just by reading the recipe.

I decided to give it a try, and I gathered all the ingredients I needed. I marinated the pork chops in a mixture of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil, letting the flavors meld together for a few hours. Then, I seared the chops in a hot skillet until they were golden brown and cooked to perfection.

As I took my first bite of the Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops, I knew I had stumbled upon a winner. The flavors were robust and delicious, with the garlic and herbs infusing every bite with savory goodness. I couldn't believe how simple it was to make such a delicious dish, and I knew I had to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes. I have shared it with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become fast friends after tasting these delectable pork chops.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe was when my dear friend Maria came over for dinner. She had just returned from a trip to Italy and was craving some authentic Italian cuisine. I knew that my Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops would hit the spot.

As Maria took her first bite, her eyes lit up with delight. She exclaimed, "This tastes just like the pork chops I had in Tuscany! How did you manage to capture the flavors so perfectly?"

I smiled and told her about the recipe I had stumbled upon all those years ago. Maria was amazed at how such a simple recipe could yield such incredible results. We spent the evening savoring the pork chops and reminiscing about her trip to Italy, with each bite transporting us back to the quaint trattorias and bustling markets of Tuscany.

Since then, my Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops have become a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties. Whenever I serve them, the aroma of garlic and herbs fills the air, drawing everyone to the table with eager anticipation.

I have shared the recipe with anyone who asks, always encouraging them to make it their own by adding their own twist. Some have added a splash of white wine to the marinade, while others have experimented with different herbs and spices. No matter how they choose to make it, the result is always a delicious and satisfying meal that brings people together.

I am grateful for the day I stumbled upon this recipe, as it has brought me so much joy and culinary adventure. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and sharing this recipe with others has allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Garlic Herb Italian-style Pork Chops with my loved ones, I am reminded of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And I am grateful for the simple pleasures in life, like a delicious home-cooked meal shared with those we hold dear.