A Recipe Close to My Heart: Easy Grilled Pork Chops with Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper

There’s something profoundly comforting about grilling. Maybe it’s the smoky aroma or the sizzle as food hits the grill; either way, it brings back memories of family reunions and backyard gatherings. Today, I’m going to share one of my favorite grilling recipes that’s not only delightful in flavor but incredibly simple to execute—perfect for the beginner cook or the busy food enthusiast. Simple seasonings like sea salt and cracked pepper bring out the succulent flavors of pork chops in an exquisite manner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, once you try these grilled pork chops, you might reconsider how often that grill gets fired up! Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire:

  • Minimal ingredients: All you need are pork chops, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Yes, that’s it!
  • Quick to prepare: From fridge to table, you’re looking at less than 30 minutes.
  • Flexibility: Whether it’s a quiet dinner for two or a bigger, jovial family meal, this recipe scales beautifully.
  • Beginner-friendly: Perfect for novices. If you can season and flip, you can make this dish shine.

Ingredients

Before you fire up your grill, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need right on your kitchen counter:

  • 4 pork chops, about 1-inch thick, bone-in for extra flavor
  • 2 teaspoons of sea salt, preferably coarse
  • 1½ teaspoons of cracked black pepper
  • Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnishing

Prepping Your Pork Chops

With a recipe this simple, the preparation becomes very straightforward. Here’s how you’ll get your pork chops ready for the grill:

  • Pat them dry: Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick and promotes a beautiful sear.
  • Season generously: Sprinkle the sea salt and cracked pepper evenly on both sides of the pork chops. Don’t be shy; a good crust of seasoning adds a fantastic flavor punch.
  • Let them sit: Allow the seasoned pork chops to sit out at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before grilling. This step helps them cook more evenly.

Grilling to Perfection

Now, for the fun part—grilling! Whether you’re using a gas grill or a charcoal grill, these tips will ensure succulent, perfectly cooked pork chops:

  • Preheat your grill: Aim for a medium-high heat, which should be around 375°F to 450°F.
  • Cooking time: Place pork chops on the hot grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. The goal here is to get a nice char on each side while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
  • Check for doneness: The safest way to check if your pork chops are done is by using an instant-read thermometer. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F followed by a 3-minute rest off the grill.

Grill marks are not just aesthetically pleasing but also a sign of well-cooked meat. However, the real key is not to overcook your pork chops, keeping them moist and tender inside.

Serving Suggestions

These pork chops go marvelously with a variety of sides. Here are a few pairings that might inspire your next meal:

  • Grilled vegetables: Think bell peppers, zucchinis, or asparagus for a touch of color and extra nutrition.
  • A simple salad: A crisp green salad or a traditional coleslaw complements the rich flavors wonderfully.
  • Starches: Roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a loaf of crusty bread can round off a meal nicely.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a dish that’s robust in flavor, yet simple enough for a weekday dinner or a special weekend cookout. Remember, the best dishes are often the simplest; it’s all about the quality of the ingredients and the love put into preparing them. I hope you’ll cherish these moments around the grill as much as the meal itself.

So, grab those pork chops, fire up your grill, and get ready to make some delicious memories. Happy grilling!