Easy Italian Spiced Pork Chops

Italian spiced pork chops, sounded delicious and was; that is if you do not over cook the meat. I am not a big fan of the modern kitchen that is fitted with every kitchen tool imaginable. While they may be convenient they are expensive and then you are left the dilemma of where to store it all. Spend the money instead on the three must haves: a really good sharp chef’s knife, a pan that can transition from stove top to oven and a meat thermometer.

I can’t find the words to describe my amazement when I cut my first tomato using a knife that was actually sharp. I lived all those years thinking I was playing it safe by using dull knives but the truth is a sharp knife makes slicing and dicing faster and there is less chance of the knife bouncing off the object you are trying to saw.

In the case of Italian Spiced Pork Chops if you do not own a grill an oven proof skillet may be used to sear the meat then finish cooking in a 350 degree oven. On the other hand if you decide to cook the pork in the pan for the three minutes on each side you can place the pork and pan in a 200 degree oven for 20 minutes. Versatile translates to fast and easy, code name simple!

Source: Pillsbury Good For You 2006
1 package (.6 oz) Italian dressing mix or 2 tbsp of dressing mix (recipe below)
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil
4 boneless pork loin chops, 3/4 inch thick
Paprika

In a small bowl, beat dressing mix, vinegar, Italian seasoning and red pepper with wire whisk until mix is dissolved. Beat in oil until well blended.

In a shallow glass baking dish, arrange pork chops in a single layer. Spread oil mixture over both sides of pork. Let stand at room temperature 15 minutes to marinate or all day.

Meanwhile, heat gas or charcoal grill or pan.

When grill is heated, remove pork from marinade; discard marinade. Place pork on gas grill over medium-high heat or on charcoal grill over medium-high coals. Sprinkle pork with paprika. Cook uncovered 4 minutes. Turn pork; sprinkle with paprika. Cook uncovered 3 to 6 minutes longer or until slightly pink in center and thermometer inserted into center of pork reads 160 degrees.

Italian Dressing Mix
1 Tbsp garlic powder
1 Tbsp onion powder
1 Tbsp sugar
2 Tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp dried basil
1 Tbsp dried parsley
1/4 tsp celery salt
2 T salt

Mix dry ingredients. Store in an airtight container.

To make dressing:
2 Tbsp dry dressing mix
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 Tbsp water
2/3 cup olive oil

Using a bowl and whisk or a jar with a lid, whisk the dressing mix, vinegar and water. Add oil in a steady steam whisking continuously.