Lemon-Herb Pork Chops: A Healthy Diabetic New Years Alternative
I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy dinner recipes that are both delicious and healthy. That’s where these Lemon-Herbed Pork Chops come in. Not only is this recipe a great alternative to the traditional pork and kraut for New Years, pair this with our Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes and you have a dinner to start your New Year off right!
Not only are they packed with flavor thanks to the zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, but they’re also incredibly simple to prepare. All you need is a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes in the oven, and you’ve got a tasty and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
But the best part about this recipe is that it’s not just tasty, it’s also good for you. The pork is a great source of protein, and the lemon and herbs provide a burst of freshness and flavor without adding any unnecessary calories or fat.
So if you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that’s both delicious and healthy, give these Herbed Lemon Pork Chops a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Benefits of Eating Pork
Pork is a delicious and nutritious meat that can be a great addition to a healthy diet. Some potential benefits of eating pork include:
- Protein: Pork is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
- Iron: Pork is a good source of iron, which is necessary for carrying oxygen to the body’s cells.
- Zinc: Pork is also a good source of zinc, which is important for immune function and wound healing.
- Other nutrients: Pork is also a source of other essential nutrients such as B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus.
- Versatility: Pork can be cooked in a variety of ways, making it a versatile option for meal planning.
Of course, it’s important to choose lean cuts of pork and to cook it properly to minimize the risk of food-borne illness. Overall, including pork as part of a balanced diet can be a healthy and delicious choice.
Possible Substitutions for Lemon-Herb Pork Chops
Here are some potential substitutions for the ingredients in this Herbed Lemon Pork Chops recipe:
- Pork chops: If you don’t have pork chops, you could try using chicken breasts or thighs instead.
- Lemon: If you don’t have a lemon, you could use a lime or orange instead.
- Basil: If you don’t have basil, you could use fresh rosemary or parsley instead.
- Thyme: If you don’t have thyme, you could use oregano or marjoram instead.
- Olive oil: If you don’t have olive oil, you could use melted butter or vegetable oil instead.
Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the flavor of the recipe slightly. Feel free to experiment and use whatever ingredients you have on hand to create a delicious and unique version of this recipe.
Herbed Lemon Porkchops
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon McCormick Salt Free Garlic and Herb Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary crushed
- 2 bone-in pork loin chops 6 ounces each
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Mix seasonings; rub over both sides of chops.
- In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
- Add pork and cook until a thermometer reads 145°, 5-8 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat; drizzle with lemon juice.
- Let stand, covered, 5 minutes before serving.
How to Store Lemon-Herb Pork Chops
To store leftovers of these Herbed Lemon Pork Chops, allow the pork to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store the pork in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the pork, place it in the refrigerator to thaw if it is frozen, then place it in the oven or on the stovetop to warm up. Alternatively, you can microwave the pork, but be careful not to overcook it or it may become dry.
It is important to store leftovers properly to prevent food-borne illness. Always make sure to refrigerate or freeze the pork within two hours of cooking, and be sure to reheat it to a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) before serving.
FAQ About Lemon-Herb Pork Chops
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A: Yes, you can use a different cut of pork for this recipe if desired. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and type of cut you use. For example, tenderloin or loin chops will cook more quickly than shoulder or rib chops.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh if necessary. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you will need to use less. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free cooking method. Just be sure to use a gluten-free cooking spray or oil to grease the baking dish, and check the labels on the lemon juice and herbs to ensure they are gluten-free.