Quick Fix: Cranberry Maple Pork Chops with Caraway Fettuccine and Broccoli
I wanted a festive meal for this time of year but was very busy. So, I created this easy colorful dinner. The pork is cooked in a skillet and is removed, and the sauce is made in the same skillet. The sauce takes only about 6 to 7 minutes to make.
HELPFUL HINTS:
Any type of pork chop can be used.
Spaghetti can be used instead of fettuccine.
Use frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available.
COUNTDOWN:
Prepare all ingredients.
Place water for fettuccine on to boil.
Make pork chop recipe.
Boil pasta and broccoli.
SHOPPING LIST:
To buy:
- 3/4 pound boneless center loin pork chop (about 1-inch thick),
- 1 bottle balsamic vinegar,
- 1 package cranberries,
- 1 bottle maple syrup,
- 1 box fettuccine,
- 1/4 pound broccoli florets,
- 1 bottle caraway seeds.
Staples: olive oil, salt and black peppercorns.
Cranberry Maple Pork Chops
Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer
- 3/4 pound boneless center loin pork chop (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
Remove visible fat from pork. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brown pork for 5 minutes, turn and salt and pepper cooked side. Brown the second side for 5 minutes and remove to a plate. A meat thermometer should read 145 degrees. Add balsamic vinegar to the skillet and scrape up any brown bits in the skillet. Add the cranberries and maple syrup. Stir to combine the ingredients. The cranberries will burst (pop). Mash them with a spoon and stir to make a thick sauce, about 2 to 3 minutes. Divide the pork in two portions and place on two dinner plates. Spoon the sauce on top.
Per serving: 377 calories (22 percent from fat), 8.9 g fat (1.9 g saturated, 3.3 g monounsaturated), 96 mg cholesterol, 41.0 g protein, 30.3 g carbohydrates, 2.0 g fiber,159 mg sodium.
Caraway Scented Fettuccine and Broccoli
Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer
- 1/4 pound fettuccine
- 1/4 pound broccoli florets, about 3 cups
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon caraway seeds
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
Bring a large pot three quarters full of water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and boil 5 minutes. Add the broccoli and continue to boil for 4 minutes. Remove 1/4 cup pasta water to a bowl and add the olive oil. Then drain the pasta and broccoli and add to the bowl. Add the caraway seeds and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well. Serve with the pork.
Yields 2 servings.
Per serving: 178 calories (16 percent from fat), 4.9 g fat (0.7 g saturated, 1.9 g monounsaturated), no cholesterol, 11.6 g protein, 48.5 g carbohydrates, 5.0 g fiber, 35 mg sodium.
Conclusion:
This quick and easy dinner is perfect for a busy day. The cranberry maple pork chops are flavorful and the caraway scented fettuccine and broccoli add a nice depth of flavor. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use different types of pork chops?
A: Yes, any type of pork chop can be used.
Q: Can I use spaghetti instead of fettuccine?
A: Yes, spaghetti can be used instead of fettuccine.
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes, use frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available.
Q: What is the purpose of caraway seeds?
A: Caraway seeds add a nutty, delicate anise flavor to the fettuccine and add an intriguing flavor to the meal.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the pork chops can be cooked ahead of time and reheated. The fettuccine and broccoli can be cooked just before serving.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
A: This recipe is suitable for those with gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-sodium diets.
