Save Tender pork chops seared and roasted with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and crisp asparagus for a vibrant, easy weeknight meal made all in one pan.
I love how quickly this meal comes together and fills the kitchen with bright lemon and herb aromas.
Ingredients
- Pork and Marinade: 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried), 1 tablespoon fresh thyme finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried), 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Vegetables: 1 bunch asparagus (about 400 g) trimmed, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Garnish (optional): Lemon wedges, fresh herbs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add pork chops and coat evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor).
- Step 3:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chops and set aside.
- Step 4:
- Add asparagus to the same skillet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Step 5:
- Nestle the pork chops among the asparagus. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 10 12 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and asparagus is tender.
- Step 6:
- Rest pork chops for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired.
Save This recipe quickly became a favorite at family dinners thanks to its vibrant flavors and easy preparation.
Tips for Perfect Pork Chops
Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Variations
Swap asparagus for green beans or broccolini to change up the vegetables easily.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Save 
This dish offers a quick 30-minute recipe that combines fresh ingredients for delicious weeknight dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute asparagus with other vegetables?
Yes, green beans or broccolini are excellent alternatives that roast well alongside pork chops and complement the herbs and lemon flavor.
- → How do I ensure pork chops stay juicy and tender?
Marinate the pork chops with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor and moisture before searing and roasting.
- → What is the best internal temperature for cooking pork chops?
Cook pork chops until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy, safe-to-eat meat with a slightly pink center.
- → Can I prepare this dish without an ovenproof skillet?
Use a separate oven-safe dish to roast the pork and asparagus after searing in a stovetop skillet, but using one pan simplifies the cooking process.
- → How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Adding a splash of white wine before roasting enhances depth and aroma, pairing well with lemon and herbs.