It’s perfect for summer barbecues or a casual weeknight dinner, turning an ordinary meal into a festive occasion.
Grilling the Pork Chops to Perfection
To begin, rub the pork chops with olive oil before generously applying the spice mixture. This step not only helps in adhering the spices but also adds an extra layer of flavor. Allowing the pork to marinate for a short period at room temperature enhances the infusion of spices, giving each bite a burst of flavor.
Crafting the Pineapple Salsa
A splash of lime juice adds acidity, brightening the flavors. If you enjoy spicy elements, consider including minced jalapeño. Once combined, let the salsa sit for a while. This allows the ingredients to meld together and develop a more cohesive taste.
Grilling Techniques for the Ideal Chop
Preheat the grill to a medium-high heat. This is ideal for searing the outside while allowing the inside to cook through.
When placing the pork chops on the grill, resist the urge to move them around too much. Let them sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Once grilled, allowing them to rest for a few minutes ensures that the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist chop.
Serving Suggestions
Top the chops generously with the vibrant pineapple salsa, letting the colorful toppings spill over.
Consider preparing the pineapple salsa ahead of time so that the flavors can develop while the pork is marinating.
These smoky grilled pork chops are tender and flavorful, infused with a perfect balance of spices that create a delicious crust on the outside. Paired with fresh pineapple salsa, the dish offers a delightful contrast of heat and sweetness that will make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the pork chops with olive oil and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Marinate the Chops: Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Make the Pineapple Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using). Toss well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Pork Chops: Place the marinated pork chops on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve: Top the grilled pork chops with the fresh pineapple salsa and enjoy with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 330kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
Grilled Pork Chops With Pineapple Salsa
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup pineapple diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- 1 lime juiced
- 1 jalapeño seeded and minced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the pork chops with olive oil and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Marinate the Chops: Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Make the Pineapple Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using). Toss well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Pork Chops: Place the marinated pork chops on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve: Top the grilled pork chops with the fresh pineapple salsa and enjoy with your favorite sides.