Save to Pinterest Tender pork chops seared and roasted with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and crisp asparagus for a vibrant, easy weeknight meal made all in one pan.
This recipe has quickly become a favorite weeknight dinner in our home because it's flavorful and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Pork and Marinade: 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried), 1 tablespoon fresh thyme finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried), 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Vegetables: 1 bunch asparagus (about 400 g) trimmed, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Garnish (optional): Lemon wedges, fresh herbs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add pork chops and coat evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor).
- Step 3:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chops and set aside.
- Step 4:
- Add asparagus to the same skillet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Step 5:
- Nestle the pork chops among the asparagus. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 10–12 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and asparagus is tender.
- Step 6:
- Rest pork chops for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this fresh and flavorful meal, especially when garnished with lemon wedges and herbs.
Notes
Swap asparagus for green beans or broccolini if preferred. For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine before roasting. Pair with roasted potatoes or a light salad for a full meal.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet, mixing bowl, tongs
Allergen Information
Contains no common allergens. Double-check ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination if gluten or nut allergies are a concern.
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Enjoy the bright and savory flavors of this one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure pork chops stay tender?
Marinate pork chops with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and herbs to enhance moisture and flavor. Sear on medium-high heat to lock juices before roasting.
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini are great alternatives that roast similarly and complement the herb and lemon flavors well.
- → What internal temperature is ideal for pork chops?
Cook pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption while maintaining juiciness.
- → Is it necessary to rest pork chops after cooking?
Resting for about 5 minutes allows juices to redistribute, keeping the pork moist and tender.
- → How can I add more depth to the dish?
A splash of white wine added before roasting enhances flavor complexity and pairs well with the lemon and herbs.