Grilled Pork Chops with Mediterranean Relish – The Juiciest & Tastiest Recipe!

Perfectly grilled pork chops with the right accompaniments can dazzle the taste buds of even the most discerning diners.

But if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing, the chops will easily end up dry and bland.

That’s why I recommend that you follow my step-by-step guide and get it right!

This recipe pairs juicy and tasty grilled pork chops with an onion, olive, and caper relish that complements the meat with its complex Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients & Equipment

Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need to create the perfect grilled pork chops and the complementary onion, olive, and caper relish.

This recipe is designed to serve 3-4 people, but you can easily scale it up if you have more mouths to feed!

For the Pork Chops:

• 3-4 Pork Chops: Preferably bone-in for added flavor and moisture.
• Salt: For dry brining to enhance juiciness and taste.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: As part of the basting mixture.
• 1 teaspoon Honey: To add a subtle sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• 1 teaspoon Minced Anchovy Fillet (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste): Adds a deep umami flavor.
• Black Pepper: A dash, freshly ground for the best flavor.

For the Relish:

• Olive Oil: For sautéing onions and garlic.
• 1 Onion: Chopped.
• 3 cloves Garlic: Sliced, to provide a robust flavor base.
• 2 tablespoons Capers: Rinsed and drained.
• 1/2 cup Green or Kalamata Olives: Pitted and can be either chopped or whole.
• 1 teaspoon Minced Anchovy Fillet (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste): Enhances the briny, savory depth of the relish.
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley: Minced, adds freshness.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Tarragon or Marjoram: Minced, for a hint of herbal brightness.
• 1 teaspoon Sugar: Balances the acidity and saltiness of the relish.
• Black Pepper: A dash, to taste.

Equipment

• Grill: A gas or charcoal grill is necessary for achieving that perfect sear and smoky flavor.
• Grill Tools:
  • Tongs: For flipping the pork chops safely.
  • Grill Brush: For cleaning the grill grates before cooking.
  • Basting Brush: For applying the basting mixture to the pork chops.
• Cooking Utensils:
  • Knife: For chopping onions, olives, anchovies, and herbs.
  • Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients.
  • Mixing Bowls: Needed for preparing the relish and the basting mixture.
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, honey, and spices.
• Skillet or Sauté Pan: For cooking the onion and garlic before mixing in the other relish ingredients.
• Meat Thermometer: To make sure that the pork chops are grilled to the correct internal temperature for safe and optimal doneness.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

First, we are going to ddry brine the pork chops:

• Add Salt: Generously season both sides of each pork chop with salt. This seasons the meat and helps retain moisture during cooking.
• Resting Time: Allow the pork chops to sit with the salt for at least 60 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator, before grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Basting Mixture and Relish

While waiting for the pork chops to dry brine, let’s prepare the basting mixture and relish.

Basting Mixture

• Combine Ingredients: Mix together the olive oil, honey, minced anchovy, and a dash of black pepper.
• Application: Brush this mixture on one side of each chop just before you place them on the grill, seasoned side down. This side will get the initial sear.

Onion, Olive, and Caper Relish

• Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they’re soft.
• Add Garlic: Stir in the sliced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Combine Ingredients: Add the onion and garlic mixture in bowl and then mix in the olives, capers, minced anchovy, sugar, a dash of black pepper and herbs (parsley and tarragon or marjoram).

Step 3: Grill the Pork Chops

• Preheat the Grill: If using a gas grill, turn it on to high heat. For charcoal grills, light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with gray ash. Preheat your grill to a high temperature—around 400-450°F (200-230°C) and make sure it’s cleaned properly.
• Start Grilling: Lay the pork chops on the grill, basted side down. Then baste the other side with the remaining basting mixture.

• Flip the Chops: After about 5-7 minutes of grilling, the chops should have a nice sear and it’s time to flip them.
• Finish grilling & Check for Doneness: Grill the chops for about 5-7 minutes more. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that the pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety and optimal tenderness.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

• Rest the Meat: Let the chops rest for a few minutes off the grill. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender.

• Add the Relish & Serve: Spoon a generous amount of the onion, olive, and caper relish over each pork chop. The relish’s vibrant flavors complement the rich, smoky taste of the grilled meat.

Side Dish Ideas

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts roasted to caramelized perfection.
• Creamy Polenta: A smooth and creamy polenta serves as a comforting base that contrasts well with the savory chops.
• Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the pork chops and refresh the palate.

Beverage Pairings

• Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Zinfandel complements the savory flavors of the pork chops and relish.
• Craft Beer: A pale ale with its balanced bitterness pairs well with the meal’s rich flavors without overwhelming them.

Avoid These Common Mistakes!

• Overcooking the Pork: Pork chops should be removed from the grill as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Overcooking will lead to dry, tough meat.
• Underseasoning: Ensure your pork chops are adequately seasoned before grilling. Salt them well to enhance their natural flavors.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Maintain a consistent high heat for proper searing. Fluctuating temperatures can cause uneven cooking.
• Skipping Rest Time: Always let your pork chops rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier chops.

This is a perfect dish to impress friends and family with your grilling skills. And by following this guide you’re sure to nail it!

So grab a cold beer and enjoy the process and the delicious outcomes of your new favorite grilled dish!

-Joonas