Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Greek feast! These mouthwatering Grilled Greek Pork Chops are not just a meal, but a sensory experience that combines the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with the smoky perfection of perfectly grilled meat. Imagine tender, juicy pork chops infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and classic Greek herbs that will make your dinner guests think you've trained in a traditional Greek kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the pork chops. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours is ideal.
- While the pork chops are marinating, prepare your grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing.
- Once the grill is ready, remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
- Place the pork chops on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side, without moving them, to achieve nice grill marks.
- After 4-5 minutes, flip the pork chops using tongs. Grill for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains juicy and flavorful.
- Serve the grilled Greek pork chops with your choice of sides, such as a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Marinating is Key: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes works, letting the pork chops sit for up to 2 hours will dramatically enhance the flavor profile.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops are cooked to perfection. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F (63°C) for juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
- Let it Rest: Always allow your grilled pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Grill Marks Magic: For those picture-perfect grill marks, avoid moving the meat around too much. Place the chops and let them sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Serving Suggestions: Elevate your dish by pairing these pork chops with classic Greek sides like tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
