Prepare to elevate your dinner game with a mouthwatering Italian-inspired dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean! These Pork Scallops with Lemon and Herbs are not just a meal—they're a culinary experience that promises to be both elegant and incredibly simple to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and guests, proving that gourmet cooking can be achievable for home chefs of all skill levels.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork scallops from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and golden-brown exterior.
- Season both sides of the pork scallops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely and chop the fresh herbs (parsley and thyme) into small pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork scallops into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip the scallops and add minced garlic to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the second side.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops during the last minute of cooking.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the scallops just before removing from heat.
- Transfer the cooked pork scallops to a serving platter and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve immediately with a lemon wedge on the side.
Tips
- To ensure perfect pork scallops every time, keep these pro tips in mind: • Always pat the meat dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust • Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution • Don't overcrowd the pan, which can cause steaming instead of searing • Let the scallops come to room temperature before cooking for more even results • Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor • Watch the cooking time carefully to prevent overcooking and drying out the meat • Let the scallops rest after cooking to retain their juiciness • Serve immediately for the best taste and texture
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 50mg
