Get ready for some juicy grilled pork chops topped with a bright and refreshing nectarine salsa! The sweet and tangy flavors of the salsa perfectly match the savory meat.
These chops are a hit at every cookout! I love how simple it is to whip up the salsa while the pork sizzles on the grill. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in chops for extra flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work, but watch them closely as they cook faster.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, sweet paprika or a bit of cayenne pepper can work too—but adjust for spiciness.
Nectarines: Fresh nectarines are perfect for salsa, but if they’re out of season, peaches are an excellent substitute. Canned fruit can also be used, just drain and pat dry!
Cilantro: I adore the fresh taste it brings, but if you’re not a fan, you can swap it for parsley or even mint for a unique twist.
Jalapeño: This adds a spicy kick! If you prefer mild, leave it out or use a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Grill Marks and Juiciness on Pork Chops?
To make sure your pork chops come out with beautiful grill marks and stay juicy, follow these steps:
- Make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before cooking. This helps sear the meat quickly.
- Pat your pork chops dry to promote a good sear. Excess moisture can prevent that perfect crust.
- Don’t crowd the grill. Give each chop enough room to cook evenly and maintain heat.
- Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Following these tips will give you grill marks to show off and juicy chops that are packed with flavor!
Grilled Pork Chops with Fresh Nectarine Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for grill grates
For the Nectarine Salsa:
- 3 ripe nectarines, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’ll be spending about 30-35 minutes to prepare and cook this meal! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This will give the pork chops a flavorful kick!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Next, pat the pork chops dry with some paper towels. This helps get that nice sear! Rub both sides of the chops with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice rub all over. Make sure they’re well-coated! Set them aside while you prepare the salsa.
3. Prepare the Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced nectarines, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if you like a bit of spice). This salsa adds vibrant color and freshness!
4. Add Lime Juice:
Squeeze the juice of the lime over the salsa mixture and gently toss everything together. Season with a little salt and pepper to your taste. Let it sit for a bit so all those flavors can mingle!
5. Preheat the Grill:
While the salsa is resting, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Don’t forget to brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking—nobody wants their delicious pork stuck to the grill!
6. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place the pork chops on it. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have lovely grill marks. Remember to keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
7. Let Them Rest:
When they’re done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is super important to keep the meat juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, serve the grilled pork chops topped generously with the fresh nectarine salsa. Don’t forget to garnish with some extra cilantro for a pop of color!
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a light green salad. Enjoy the juicy texture of the pork with the bright, sweet, and slightly spicy burst of the nectarine salsa! Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops are a great alternative, but keep in mind they tend to cook faster. Start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier to prevent drying them out.
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salsa up to a day ahead. Just give it a good stir before serving and taste to adjust seasoning, as flavors may develop over time.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops and Salsa?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salsa should also be kept in a sealed container and can last about 2-3 days. Reheat the pork chops gently to avoid drying them out!
What Can I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops and Salsa?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, a light green salad, or even quinoa for a wholesome meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides!