These juicy grilled pork chops are a hit, especially when topped with a bright and fresh nectarine salsa! It’s a tasty mix of sweet and savory that takes this dish to the next level.
Honestly, the salsa is the star here! I love how the sweet nectarines add a fun twist. Serve it up with a side of rice or salad, and you’re all set for a happy meal! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe, but you can use bone-in chops for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken breasts or thighs instead.
Nectarines: Fresh nectarines give that sweet and juicy taste. If you can’t find them, peaches are a perfect substitute! For a different twist, consider using mango for a tropical flair.
Spices: If you don’t have chili powder, paprika or taco seasoning can work in a pinch. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño in your salsa or even switching it with diced bell peppers for milder flavor.
Cilantro: Some folks aren’t fans of cilantro. If that’s you, try fresh parsley or green onions instead for a fresh garnish.
How Do You Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky if you want them to stay juicy. Here’s how to ensure they turn out perfectly each time:
- Marinate: Allow the pork to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This adds flavor and moisture.
- Use Medium-High Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Too hot can burn the outside, while too cool can dry them out.
- Cook Time: Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness; aim for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest Time: Let the pork rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices before cutting!
With these tips, your grilled pork chops will be juicy and flavorful, perfectly paired with that bright and refreshing nectarine salsa!
Grilled Pork Chops with Fresh Nectarine Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Nectarine Salsa:
- 2 ripe nectarines, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for preparation and a quick 20 minutes for grilling and assembling. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together. Drizzle the pork chops with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Let them marinate on the counter for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the salsa.
2. Make the Nectarine Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced nectarines, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and add honey. Gently toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the salsa to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated pork chops on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and you have nice char marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
4. Serve:
After grilling, transfer the pork chops to plates. Spoon a generous amount of fresh nectarine salsa over each chop. If you like, you can garnish with extra cilantro.
5. Enjoy!
Serve these delicious grilled pork chops immediately, accompanied by your favorite sides such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time as they may require a bit longer to cook through compared to boneless chops.
How Do I Store Leftover Salsa?
Store any leftover nectarine salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits, making it even tastier as a topping for other dishes too!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as some liquid may settle at the bottom.
What’s the Best Cooking Method for Pork Chops if I Don’t Have a Grill?
If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-sear the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Just be sure to check the internal temperature for doneness!