Oh, do I have a treat for you! Today, I’m excited to share one of my absolute favorite recipes: Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Marinade. Honestly, this dish has a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of summer barbecues with family and friends. Picture it: the sun is shining, a gentle breeze is blowing, and the aroma of marinated pork chops sizzling on the grill fills the air. It’s pure bliss!
These pork chops are not only delicious, but they’re also super easy to make, which is a win-win in my book! The balsamic marinade adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the juicy pork. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation. So, let’s dive into what makes these chops so irresistible!
What’s in Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Marinade?
– Boneless Pork Chops: I always go for about 1-inch thick chops for the best grilling results. They come out juicy and tender when cooked properly.
– Balsamic Vinegar: This rich vinegar brings a wonderful tangy flavor that really elevates the dish. It’s key for that delicious marinade.
– Olive Oil: This adds a lovely smoothness to the marinade, helping all those flavors cling beautifully to the meat. I prefer extra virgin for the best flavor.
– Honey: Balance is everything! The honey sweetens the marinade, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
– Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punchy aroma and depth to the marinade. Because honestly, who doesn’t love garlic?
– Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These classic herbs provide an earthy flavor. Fresh herbs are fantastic if you have them, but dried works just fine too.
– Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help enhance all the delicious flavors.
– Fresh Parsley: This is primarily for garnish, but it adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to the dish.
– Mashed Potatoes: Trust me, you’ll want to serve these with the chops; they make for the ultimate comforting side!
Is Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Marinade Good for You?
Absolutely! These grilled pork chops are a tasty way to enjoy a lean protein source.
Pork Chops: Not only are they rich in protein, but they also provide vitamins B6 and B12, essential for energy levels and brain function. Just be mindful of how much salt you add to keep it heart-healthy.
Balsamic Vinegar: It has antioxidants and is known to have various health benefits, including potential blood sugar regulation. Plus, it’s low in calories, making it a smart choice for those watching their intake.
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil is great for heart health. Just remember: moderation is key!
Of course, like anything, it’s good to enjoy these in balance with other healthy foods.
Here’s What You Need:
– 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Mashed potatoes (for serving)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends!
How to Make Grilled Pork Chops with Balsamic Marinade?
1. In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. This is where all the magic begins!
2. Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour that luscious marinade over the chops. Seal the bag or cover your dish, and let those flavors mingle in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, aim for 2 hours—trust me, you won’t regret it!
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Get that grill sizzlin’!
4. Remove the pork chops from the marinade and toss out the leftover marinade—no double dipping here!
5. Grill the pork chops for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use tongs to flip them so they get those gorgeous grill marks.
6. Once they’re cooked, make sure to let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before diving in. This helps keep them juicy!
7. Serve those beautiful chops alongside a heap of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley. I mean, just look at that plate—how can you resist?
Grilling Tips & Serving Suggestions
So, here’s a nugget of wisdom: if you want to take these pork chops to the next level, consider adding some veggies to the grill! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob make excellent accompaniments.
And if you want a kick of flavor, try swapping out the honey for maple syrup in the marinade. It’s a delightful twist!
I can’t express how much I enjoy making these grilled pork chops. They’re a simple yet sophisticated dish, ready to impress anyone at your dinner table. I hope you give this recipe a try! When you do, let me know how it turns out; I’d love to hear about your grilling adventures! Happy cooking!
