Save 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 quickly became a family favorite because of its bright lemon flavor and simplicity to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops: about 1 inch thick
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons total (2 for marinade, 1 for searing plus 1 for asparagus)
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Fresh rosemary: 1 tablespoon finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
- Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
- Salt: 1 teaspoon plus ½ teaspoon for asparagus
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon plus ¼ teaspoon for asparagus
- Lemon: zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Asparagus: 1 bunch (about 400 g) trimmed
- Lemon wedges: for garnish (optional)
- Fresh herbs: for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Marinate Pork:
- 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.
- Sear Pork Chops:
- 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.
- Prepare Asparagus:
- Add asparagus to the same skillet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Roast:
- Nestle the pork chops among the asparagus. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 10 to 12 minutes or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and asparagus is tender.
- Rest and Serve:
- Rest pork chops for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired.
Save Watching my family gather around the table enjoying this fresh and flavorful dish always brings me joy.
Optional Variations
You can swap asparagus for green beans or broccolini for a different texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this meal with roasted potatoes or a light salad for a full dinner experience.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently to preserve flavors.
Save
This simple one-pan recipe delivers bright flavors and effortless cleanup, making weeknight meals easier than ever.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pork chops works best for this dish?
Boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick provide even cooking and tender results when seared and roasted.
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini are excellent alternatives that roast well alongside the pork.
- → How should I know when the pork chops are done?
Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- → Is marinating necessary for flavor?
Marinating for at least 10 minutes infuses the chops with lemon and herb flavors, enhancing tenderness and taste.
- → What cooking methods are used in this preparation?
The pork is first seared on the stovetop for a golden crust, then roasted with asparagus in the oven for balanced texture.
- → Can I add any additional ingredients for extra flavor?
A splash of white wine before roasting or fresh herb garnishes can add depth and brightness to the dish.