This Mediterranean Pork & Apples dish is a tasty mix of tender pork and sweet apples, all brought together with bright spices. It’s simple but full of flavor!
I love how the sweet apples make the pork taste amazing. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family and friends at dinner. Serve it up with some rice or veggies, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for something leaner, you could use chicken breasts or thighs instead. They cook well and absorb flavors nicely too!
Apples: Gala or Honeycrisp are my favorites for their sweetness and crunch. However, you could also use Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Fuji apples if you prefer a sweeter option.
Olive Oil: This is used for cooking and adds flavor. If you want a different taste, feel free to substitute with avocado oil or canola oil. Just avoid oils with strong flavors!
Herbs: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. If you don’t have fresh rosemary or thyme, dried versions work just fine. I often use Italian seasoning as a quick substitute too!
Paprika: It adds a lovely warmth. Smoked paprika can give a nice smoky flavor if that’s what you enjoy! If unavailable, just skip it or use regular paprika.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Roasted Vegetables?
The veggies are just as crucial as the pork! To make sure they’re perfectly roasted, here’s what to do:
- Cut vegetables in similar sizes to ensure even cooking. The quartered potatoes should match the size of the apple slices for even tenderness.
- Toss them with olive oil and seasonings before placing the pork on top. This helps them absorb all that juicy flavor.
- Leave a little space around the vegetables; crowding can cause them to steam instead of roast. If you have a large lot, consider using two pans.
- Turn the pork halfway through cooking to ensure even browning, while also giving the veggies a little mix to promote caramelization.
Following these tips will help you achieve beautifully roasted vegetables every time!
How to Make Mediterranean Pork & Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 medium apples (such as Gala or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 medium red potatoes, quartered
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for finishing)
- Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time about 40 minutes. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s hot enough to roast the pork and vegetables perfectly.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the dried rosemary, dried thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend will give your pork a wonderful flavor.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Rub both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. Then, coat them evenly with the spice mixture you just prepared. Set them aside to let the flavors soak in.
4. Toss the Vegetables and Apples:
In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, toss together the quartered potatoes, sliced onions, chopped red bell pepper, and apple slices. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt, and add some of the remaining herb mix. Mix well to coat everything.
5. Arrange the Dish:
Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the vegetable and apple mixture. This way, the juices from the pork will drip onto the veggies while cooking, adding extra flavor.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Put the skillet or pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. You want the pork to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the vegetables to be tender and slightly caramelized. Be sure to turn the pork halfway through for even cooking.
7. Add Some Brightness:
If you like, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the cooked vegetables and apples just before serving. This will give everything a lovely brightness and extra flavor.
8. Let the Pork Rest:
Once done, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside and makes it more tender when you slice it.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Slice the pork chops and plate them with the roasted apples, potatoes, and veggies. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary for a nice finishing touch.
Enjoy your Mediterranean Pork & Apples with a side of sautéed asparagus or a light green salad for a full meal! It’s a delightful combination of flavors that’s sure to please everyone!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the pork chops with boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for the proper internal temperature.
What Types of Apples Work Best?
Gala and Honeycrisp apples are ideal for this dish because they’re sweet and hold their shape well during roasting. You can also use Granny Smith for a tart twist or Fuji for extra sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. Just ensure they’re cut to similar sizes for even cooking, and adjust the oil and seasoning accordingly.
