Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these succulent pork chops paired with vibrant, roasted vegetables. This dish combines fresh, healthy ingredients with classic Mediterranean flavors for a delightful meal.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staple items in your pantry. For example, kalamata olives and feta cheese add a distinctly Mediterranean flair and might require a trip to the supermarket. Make sure to also pick up Montreal chicken seasoning for that signature spice blend.
Ingredients For Mediterranean Pork Chops With Vegetables
pork chops: Tender cuts of pork, perfect for grilling or pan-searing.
Montreal chicken seasoning: A blend of spices perfect for seasoning meats.
zucchini: A versatile, green summer squash.
yellow squash: A golden, slightly sweeter cousin to zucchini.
grape tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that roast beautifully.
extra virgin olive oil: A flavorful oil ideal for sautéing and roasting.
kosher salt: A coarse-grained salt that enhances flavors.
fresh cracked pepper: Adds a sharp, spicy note to dishes.
oregano: A fragrant herb commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
garlic: Adds a robust, pungent flavor when roasted or sautéed.
cooking spray: Prevents food from sticking to pans without adding extra fat.
kalamata olives: Dark, rich olives that bring a briny depth to dishes.
feta cheese: A crumbly, tangy cheese that adds a creamy texture.
fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, acidic note to balance flavors.
lemon rind: The zest of the lemon, adding citrusy aroma and flavor.
One reader, Kimberley Hager says:
This Mediterranean pork chops with vegetables recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The juicy pork chops paired with the roasted veggies and tangy feta create a perfect harmony. Easy to follow and incredibly tasty, it's a hit at our dinner table every time!
Techniques Required for Mediterranean Pork Chops With Vegetables
How to use a mandolin: A mandolin is a kitchen tool used to slice vegetables very thinly and uniformly. To use it, adjust the blade to the desired thickness, hold the vegetable firmly, and slide it down the blade carefully to create even slices.
How to julienne: Julienne is a technique where vegetables are cut into thin, matchstick-like strips. After slicing the zucchini into ⅛-inch thick slices, stack a few slices and cut them lengthwise into thin strips.
How to roast tomatoes: Roasting tomatoes involves cooking them in the oven at a high temperature until they become tender and slightly caramelized. Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano, then place them cut side up on a baking sheet and roast.
How to sauté: Sautéing is a cooking method where food is cooked quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Heat the skillet, add oil, and cook the zucchini with salt until tender.
How to cook pork chops: Cooking pork chops involves heating a skillet, adding cooking spray, and cooking the pork chops on medium-high heat for a short period on each side until they are done but not overcooked.
How to zest a lemon: Zesting a lemon involves removing the outermost layer of the lemon peel, which contains flavorful oils. Use a microplane or a fine grater to gently grate the yellow part of the lemon rind, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
How To Make Mediterranean Pork Chops with Vegetables Recipe
Have a delightful meal with meat and veggies with this Mediterranean-style boneless pork chops topped with sauteed vegetables, lemon juice, and cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 16ozpork chops,thin sliced, center cut, boneless
- ¾: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>6ozsmall zucchini,ends trimmed off
- 6ozsmall yellow squash,ends trimmed off
- 1cupgrape tomatoes,halved
- 1tbspextra virgin olive oil
- ¼tspkosher salt and fresh cracked pepper
- ¼tsporegano
- 3clovesgarlic,sliced thin
- cooking spray
- ¼cupKalamata olives,pitted and sliced
- ¼cupFeta cheese,crumbled
- ½large fresh lemon juice
- 1tsplemon rind,grated
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Season the pork chops with Montreal seasoning or other desired seasoning.
-
Use a mandolin fitted with a julienne blade, or slice the zucchini into ⅛-inch thick slices. Cut the slices lengthwise into ⅛-inch thick strips or use a spiralizer.
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Toss the tomatoes with ½ tablespoon of the olive oil, ⅛ teaspoon salt, pepper, and oregano. Place tomatoes cut side up, on a baking sheet lightly sprayed with cooking spray; roast for 10 minutes.
-
Add sliced garlic and roast for another 5 minutes. Transfer to a large work bowl and set aside.
-
Reduce oven to 200 degrees F.
-
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil and zucchini with ⅛ teaspoon salt and sauté until tender for about 5 minutes.
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Add to bowl with tomatoes and place in the warm oven.
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Working in two batches, spray the skillet with cooking spray and cook half of the pork chops on medium-high heat for about 1½ to 2 minutes on each side. Do not overcook. Set aside on a platter.
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Remove the vegetables from the oven toss with Kalamata olives, juice of lemon, and lemon rind.
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Serve the vegetables over the pork chops and top with Feta cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 324.78kcal
- Fat: 19.76g
- Saturated Fat: 5.63g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.77g
- Carbohydrates: 10.66g
- Fiber: 2.07g
- Sugar: 2.84g
- Protein: 26.35g
- Cholesterol: 86.59mg
- Sodium: 361.00mg
- Calcium: 107.47mg
- Potassium: 778.48mg
- Iron: 1.73mg
- Vitamin A: 46.07µg
- Vitamin C: 22.61mg
Helpful Technique for Making Mediterranean Pork Chops
When using a mandolin or spiralizer to cut the zucchini and yellow squash, ensure the vegetables are firm and fresh. This will make it easier to achieve uniform slices or spirals, which cook more evenly and present better on the plate. Always use the hand guard or a cut-resistant glove to protect your fingers from the sharp blades.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Mediterranean Recipe
Preheat efficiently: Preheat the oven while you prepare the pork chops and vegetables to save time.
Use a mandolin: A mandolin or spiralizer can quickly slice the zucchini and yellow squash into uniform strips.
Batch cooking: Cook the pork chops in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Multitask roasting: Roast the tomatoes and garlic while sautéing the zucchini to streamline the process.
Prep ingredients: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking to make the process smoother and faster.
Substitute Ingredients For Mediterranean Pork Chops with Vegetables Recipe
pork chops - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are a lean protein that can be seasoned and cooked similarly to pork chops.
mccormick montreal chicken seasoning - Substitute with italian seasoning: Italian seasoning provides a similar blend of herbs and spices that complement Mediterranean flavors.
small zucchini - Substitute with eggplant: Eggplant has a similar texture and absorbs flavors well, making it a good substitute for zucchini.
small yellow squash - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers add a sweet and slightly crunchy texture that pairs well with Mediterranean dishes.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes have a similar size and sweetness, making them an excellent substitute.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative to olive oil.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar level of salinity and can be used interchangeably with kosher salt.
fresh cracked pepper - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper offers the same spiciness and can be used in place of freshly cracked pepper.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a slightly different but complementary flavor profile that works well in Mediterranean dishes.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can enhance the dish similarly to garlic.
cooking spray - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used to grease the pan and add a rich flavor to the dish.
kalamata olives - Substitute with green olives: Green olives offer a similar briny flavor and can be used as a substitute.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a good alternative to feta.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and freshness to the dish.
lemon rind - Substitute with orange rind: Orange rind offers a slightly sweeter citrus note that can complement the dish well.
Presenting Mediterranean Pork Chops With Vegetables
Choose the right plate: Use a large, white, round plate to provide a clean canvas that highlights the vibrant colors of the Mediterranean pork chops and vegetables.
Create a base layer: Place a small mound of the sautéed zucchini and yellow squash in the center of the plate to act as a bed for the pork chops.
Position the pork chops: Lay the pork chops slightly overlapping each other on top of the vegetable base, ensuring they are centered and slightly angled for visual appeal.
Add the roasted tomatoes: Scatter the roasted grape tomatoes around the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly distributed to add pops of color and texture.
Incorporate the olives: Sprinkle the kalamata olives around the plate, focusing on the outer edges to create a balanced look.
Drizzle with lemon juice: Lightly drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the entire dish to add brightness and enhance the flavors.
Garnish with lemon rind: Sprinkle the lemon rind over the pork chops and vegetables for a touch of zest and visual contrast.
Top with feta cheese: Crumble the feta cheese over the pork chops and vegetables, ensuring it is evenly distributed to add creaminess and a hint of saltiness.
Final touch with herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh oregano or parsley on top for a burst of green and a finishing touch of elegance.
Serve immediately: Present the dish promptly to ensure the pork chops remain juicy and the vegetables retain their vibrant colors and textures.
Essential Tools for Making Pork Chops and Vegetables
Oven: Used to preheat to 450 degrees F and roast the tomatoes and garlic.
Mandolin: Fitted with a julienne blade to slice the zucchini into thin strips.
Spiralizer: An alternative to the mandolin for creating zucchini strips.
Baking sheet: Lightly sprayed with cooking spray to roast the tomatoes and garlic.
Cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the baking sheet and skillet.
Large work bowl: To transfer and mix the roasted tomatoes and garlic.
Non-stick skillet: For sautéing the zucchini and cooking the pork chops.
Tongs: To handle the pork chops while cooking.
Platter: To set aside the cooked pork chops.
Juicer: To extract the juice from the lemon.
Microplane: To zest the lemon rind.
Knife: For slicing the zucchini, yellow squash, and garlic.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for slicing the vegetables and garlic.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Measuring cups: To measure the grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
Storing and Freezing Mediterranean Pork Chops With Vegetables
- To store leftover mediterranean pork chops with vegetables, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, place the pork chops and vegetables in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops and vegetables. Wrap each pork chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring that they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped pork chops in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the pork chops for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the pork chops overnight in the refrigerator.
- To freeze the vegetables, place them in a separate freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing and label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen vegetables can be stored for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, thaw the vegetables in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat the thawed pork chops and vegetables, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave-safe dish, stirring the vegetables occasionally to ensure even heating.
How To Reheat Leftover Mediterranean Pork Chops
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pork chops and vegetables in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out during the reheating process.
Bake the covered dish in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops and vegetables are heated through. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the pork chops and the amount of leftovers you have.
Alternatively, you can reheat the mediterranean pork chops and vegetables in a microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help create steam and keep the food moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the pork chops and vegetables are heated through. Be sure to stir the vegetables halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you want to add a fresh touch to your reheated meal, consider squeezing some fresh lemon juice over the pork chops and vegetables before serving. This will brighten up the flavors and make the dish taste more vibrant.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the pork chops separately in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan and cook the pork chops for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Reheat the vegetables separately in the microwave or oven, as described above.
Interesting Fact About Mediterranean Pork Chops With Vegetables
A unique aspect of this Mediterranean pork chops with vegetables recipe is the use of feta cheese and kalamata olives, which are staple ingredients in Mediterranean cuisine, adding a distinct tangy and briny flavor to the dish.
Is This Pork Chop Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This mediterranean pork chops with vegetables recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients like pork chops, zucchini, yellow squash, grape tomatoes, and feta cheese are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of extra virgin olive oil and kalamata olives adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, this dish scores an 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD.
Is This Mediterranean Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This Mediterranean pork chops with vegetables recipe is a healthy and nutritious meal option. The dish incorporates lean protein from the pork chops, which are seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices. The recipe also features a variety of colorful vegetables, including zucchini, yellow squash, and grape tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, while the kalamata olives and feta cheese contribute to the Mediterranean flavor profile. The inclusion of garlic and lemon juice not only enhances the taste but also offers potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
To further elevate the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for lean, trimmed pork chops to reduce the overall fat content of the dish
- Increase the portion of vegetables to boost the nutrient density and fiber intake
- Use a light hand when adding the feta cheese to minimize the saturated fat content
- Experiment with additional Mediterranean-inspired vegetables, such as bell peppers, eggplant, or artichokes, to diversify the nutrient profile
- Serve the pork chops and vegetables alongside a portion of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to incorporate complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor
Editor's Opinion on Mediterranean Pork Chops With Vegetables
This Mediterranean pork chops recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of Montreal seasoning adds a robust flavor to the pork, while the combination of roasted tomatoes, zucchini, and yellow squash provides a fresh and vibrant vegetable medley. The addition of kalamata olives and feta cheese introduces a salty, tangy element that complements the dish beautifully. The lemon juice and rind add a refreshing citrus note, enhancing the overall taste. This dish is well-balanced and visually appealing, making it a great option for a healthy and flavorful meal.
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Why trust this Mediterranean Pork Chops with Vegetables Recipe:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the succulent taste of pork chops. Using fresh ingredients like zucchini, grape tomatoes, and kalamata olives, it ensures a healthy and delicious meal. The addition of feta cheese and lemon juice adds a tangy twist, while the Montreal seasoning enhances the meat's flavor. Trust this recipe for its balance of taste and nutrition, and enjoy a dish that's both easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
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