Herb-Infused Grilled Pork Chops
Transform your perception of pork chops with this incredibly flavorful recipe that combines savory herbs and a hint of tanginess. These grilled pork chops are marinated in a delightful blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh rosemary, ensuring each bite is juicy and packed with flavor. Whether you're a lifelong pork lover or someone who's had a change of heart about this versatile meat, these Herb-Infused Grilled Pork Chops are sure to impress! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, enjoy them with your favorite sides and watch your family revel in every delicious morsel.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon (none)
Garlic clove
1 clove (crushed)
Fresh rosemary
3/4 teaspoon (chopped)
Coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Coarse ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon (none)
Center-cut pork loin chops
2-3 (about 1/2 inch thick)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, crushed garlic, chopped rosemary, coarse sea salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to create a marinade.
2
Place the pork loin chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chops are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for a more intense flavor.
3
Preheat your grill, whether it’s an outdoor variety or an indoor grill pan, to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot before cooking.
4
Remove the pork chops from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chops on the grill and cook for 5-8 minutes on one side, depending on their thickness. Flip them over and grill for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 1-2 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of the Herb-Infused Grilled Pork Chops?
These pork chops feature a savory herb profile with a hint of tanginess from red wine vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.
What cut of pork is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for center-cut pork loin chops, specifically those that are about 1/2 inch thick.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
You should marinate them for at least 30 minutes, but you can leave them in the refrigerator overnight for a more intense flavor.
What ingredients are in the herb marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, red wine vinegar, crushed garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, coarse sea salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
What is the ideal internal temperature for the pork chops?
The pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be considered safely and perfectly cooked.
How long do the pork chops need to grill on each side?
Depending on thickness, they generally need 5 to 8 minutes per side on a medium-high heat grill.
Can I use an indoor grill pan for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe works perfectly on both outdoor grills and indoor grill pans.
Why is it important to let the pork rest after grilling?
Letting the meat rest for 1-2 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork is juicy when served.
Should I reuse the leftover marinade?
No, you should always discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat.
Is fresh rosemary better than dried in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for fresh rosemary for the best infusion of flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch at a smaller ratio.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
What type of vinegar is best for the marinade?
Red wine vinegar is recommended for its specific tang and ability to tenderize the pork.
How should I prepare the garlic for the marinade?
The garlic clove should be crushed before being whisked into the marinade to release its oils.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, with a short 30-minute marinating time and a 15-minute cook time, it is very efficient for busy nights.
What heat setting should my grill be on?
You should preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Does the recipe require coarse sea salt?
Yes, coarse sea salt is recommended to enhance the crust and flavor profile during grilling.
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
While the recipe suggests center-cut loin chops, bone-in chops can be used; they may just require slightly longer cooking times.
How do I store leftover grilled pork chops?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the role of Worcestershire sauce in this recipe?
Worcestershire sauce provides umami depth and enhances the savory notes of the pork.
Is this recipe considered low carb?
Yes, the ingredients used in the marinade are naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for many low-carb diets.
Can I freeze the pork while it is in the marinade?
Yes, you can freeze the pork in the marinade bag, which allows it to marinate as it thaws.
What side dishes pair well with these pork chops?
They pair excellently with roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or mashed potatoes.
Is the recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe does not contain any butter, milk, or other dairy products.
Can I substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute and pairs very well with pork.
How do I avoid drying out the pork chops?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure you don't cook them past 145°F and always let them rest before slicing.
Do I need to grease the grill?
Since the marinade contains olive oil, it helps prevent sticking, but lightly oiling the grill grates is always a good precaution.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely, you can easily double or triple the marinade and pork quantities for a barbecue or family gathering.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is savory and herbaceous rather than spicy, though it has a little kick from the black pepper.
What should I do if my pork chops are thicker than 1/2 inch?
Increase the grilling time by 2-3 minutes per side and rely on a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I use dried garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.