Mediterranean Grilled Pork Chops with Feta and Tomato Salad
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these succulent grilled pork chops, topped with a refreshing feta and tomato salad. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a perfect choice for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Using low-carb balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy twist that complements the savory pork beautifully. Whether you choose to grill them on an outdoor grill or use a George Foreman, these chops will be juicy and full of flavor. Serve alongside roasted green beans and a fresh salad for a delightful and wholesome meal that you and your loved ones will savor.
4
Servings
170
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
chopped seeded tomatoes
1/2 cup (chop 1 medium tomato and remove seeds)
bottled low-carb balsamic vinaigrette
1 tablespoon (use any brand, like Newman's Own)
boneless pork chops
4 (cut 3/4 inch thick)
lemon-pepper seasoning
1 teaspoon (ready to use)
crumbled feta cheese with garlic and herbs
1/4 cup (ready to use)
snipped fresh oregano
optional (snip fresh oregano)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the chopped seeded tomatoes and low-carb balsamic vinaigrette. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
2
Trim any excess fat from the pork chops to ensure a leaner, healthier dish.
3
Rub the lemon-pepper seasoning evenly on both sides of the pork chops, ensuring a balanced flavor.
4
Preheat your grill (or George Foreman) to medium heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are ashen and glowing.
5
Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once halfway through grilling. The chops are done when their juices run clear and they have nice grill marks.
6
Remove the chops from the grill and transfer them to serving plates.
7
Generously top each pork chop with crumbled feta cheese and spoon some of the prepared tomato mixture over the top.
8
For an added touch of flavor and color, sprinkle with snipped fresh oregano, if desired.
9
Serve immediately and enjoy your Mediterranean feast!
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
2g
Carbs
13.5g
Protein
0.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Grilled Pork Chops with Feta and Tomato Salad?
This is a healthy, low-carb dish featuring seasoned boneless pork chops grilled to perfection and topped with a refreshing mixture of chopped tomatoes, balsamic vinaigrette, and crumbled feta cheese.
How long should I cook the pork chops on the grill?
The pork chops should be cooked for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them once halfway through the grilling process.
What is the recommended grill temperature for this recipe?
You should preheat your grill to medium heat before placing the pork chops on the grate.
Can I use a George Foreman grill for this recipe?
Yes, a George Foreman or any other contact grill is an excellent alternative to an outdoor grill for this recipe.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
The pork chops are done when their juices run clear and they have developed distinct grill marks.
How should I prepare the tomatoes for the topping?
You should seed and chop the tomatoes, then combine them with the low-carb balsamic vinaigrette in a small bowl.
What type of vinaigrette is used in this Mediterranean recipe?
The recipe calls for a bottled low-carb balsamic vinaigrette, such as Newman's Own.
Is it necessary to trim the fat from the pork chops?
Trimming excess fat is recommended to ensure the dish remains lean and healthy.
What seasoning is used for the pork?
The chops are rubbed evenly on both sides with lemon-pepper seasoning.
When should I add the feta cheese?
The crumbled feta cheese should be added generously as a topping after the pork chops have been removed from the grill.
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chops, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this recipe considered low-carb?
Yes, this dish is low-carb, containing only 2g of carbohydrates per serving.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 170 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 13.5g of protein.
Can I substitute the pork with another protein?
Chicken breasts or turkey cutlets would work well as a substitute for the pork chops.
What kind of feta cheese is recommended?
The recipe suggests using crumbled feta cheese that is already seasoned with garlic and herbs.
How do I seed a tomato?
Cut the tomato in half and use a small spoon or your fingers to scoop out the watery seeds and pulp before chopping.
What side dishes pair well with these pork chops?
It is recommended to serve these chops with roasted green beans and a fresh garden salad.
Can I cook these pork chops in a skillet if I don't have a grill?
Yes, you can pan-sear the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat for a similar result.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label on your bottled balsamic vinaigrette to be sure.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried oregano, though fresh oregano is preferred for its vibrant color and flavor.
What can I use if I don't have lemon-pepper seasoning?
You can create a substitute using a mix of salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh lemon zest.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?
Yes, letting the tomato and vinaigrette mixture sit for a while allows the flavors to meld together better.
Should the pork chops rest after grilling?
Letting the meat rest for 3-5 minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, making the chops more tender.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, this recipe contains feta cheese, but you can omit the cheese to make it dairy-free.
What type of tomatoes are best for the salad?
Medium-sized round tomatoes or Roma tomatoes are ideal as they are easy to seed and chop.
Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinaigrette?
Balsamic glaze is much higher in sugar; for a low-carb version, stick with the vinaigrette.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, with only 2g of carbs and a good amount of healthy fats and protein, it is very keto-friendly.