Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece! This Italian-inspired recipe marries the rich, succulent flavor of perfectly seared pork chops with the sweet-tart pop of cranberries, the nutty crunch of toasted pine nuts, and the luxurious texture of sweet potato fettuccine. In just 45 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that will have your dinner guests wondering if a professional chef secretly invaded your kitchen!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork chops
- Cranberries (dried)
- Pine nuts
- Sweet potato fettuccine
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Fresh parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the pork chops in the pan and sear for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board, covering loosely with aluminum foil to retain heat and moisture.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, sautéing for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add dried cranberries and pine nuts to the skillet, toasting them lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Meanwhile, prepare the sweet potato fettuccine by cooking according to package instructions, typically boiling in salted water for 6-8 minutes until al dente.
- Drain the sweet potato fettuccine and add directly to the skillet with cranberries and pine nuts, tossing gently to combine.
- Slice the rested pork chops against the grain into thin strips.
- Plate the sweet potato fettuccine, arrange sliced pork on top, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Drizzle with a small amount of additional olive oil and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat your pork chops completely dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches exactly 145°F for optimal juiciness.
- Toast pine nuts and cranberries briefly to enhance their natural flavors and add depth to the dish.
- Cook sweet potato fettuccine just until al dente to maintain its unique texture.
- Let the pork rest after cooking to redistribute juices and keep the meat tender.
- Slice the pork against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 558kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
