Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with just one bite - a culinary journey that combines succulent pork chops, tangy capers, and briny olives in a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. This isn't just another recipe; it's a quick, elegant meal that promises restaurant-quality dining right in your own kitchen, ready in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork chops
- 1/4 cup capers
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and golden-brown crust.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Carefully place seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- In the same skillet, add sliced olives and capers. Sauté for 1-2 minutes to warm and slightly crisp them.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the olives and capers, scraping any browned bits from the pan.
- Plate the pork chops and generously top with the warm olive and caper mixture.
- Garnish with additional fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and a perfect sear.
- Dry Meat = Golden Crust: Pat your pork chops completely dry before seasoning to achieve that irresistible golden-brown exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and prevent steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat.
- Let It Rest: Always allow your pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and maintain maximum tenderness.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh lemon juice and, if possible, high-quality olives and capers for the most vibrant flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 261kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
