Elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Our Grilled Pork Chops with Sweet Potato Kale Red Quinoa Salad is a culinary masterpiece that combines juicy, seasoned pork chops with a vibrant, wholesome salad that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly grilled pork, complemented by the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the hearty crunch of kale, and the nutty flavor of red quinoa. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Ready to take your taste experience to the next level? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 1 cup cooked red quinoa
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Wash and dice sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Rinse kale and chop into bite-sized pieces. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
- Season pork chops: Brush pork chops with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides of the chops.
- Roast sweet potatoes: Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss diced sweet potatoes with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and tender.
- Grill pork chops: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let rest for 5 minutes after cooking.
- Prepare quinoa salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked red quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and chopped kale. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss gently to combine.
- Plate and serve: Slice pork chops and arrange over the quinoa salad. Garnish with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and kale ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
- Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops: For the juiciest pork chops, let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients to your quinoa salad, such as cherry tomatoes, avocado, or nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them separately. The salad can be enjoyed cold, while the pork chops can be reheated quickly in a skillet.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices on your pork chops. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs can add an exciting twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 368kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg
