Pork chops stuffed with tomatoes and spinach

Juicy pork chops bursting with sunshine & greens! A flavor explosion in every bite. 😋🍽️

1. Introduction 

Pork chops stuffed with tomatoes and spinach offer a delightful combination of savory pork, juicy tomatoes, and earthy spinach. This dish is an elegant yet simple way to elevate your weeknight dinner.

2. Gather the Ingredients for Pork chops stuffed with tomatoes and spinach

• 1 Tbs olive oil + 1 Tbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, diced
• 200g cleaned fresh spinach, blanched* cleaned or
• 280g frozen spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp dried thyme
• 3 Tbs feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• 4 boneless pork chops
• 1 cup chicken broth from ½ cube
• ½ lemon, zested
• 2 Tbs lemon juice
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard

3. How to Make Pork chops stuffed with tomatoes and spinach Step by Step

Begin by carefully cutting a pocket into each pork chop. Sauté the spinach and tomatoes until softened, then stuff the mixture into the pork chops. Sear the chops on both sides and then bake until cooked through and tender.

Step 1: Sauté the garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Combine spinach mixture

Add the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, salt, pepper, and thyme to the pan. Cook, stirring constantly, until all ingredients are combined and the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Mix filling

Transfer the spinach and tomato mixture to a medium bowl. Add the feta cheese and cream cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. Set the bowl aside.

Step 4: Flatten the pork chops

Place the pork chops between sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to thinly beat each chop to an even thickness. This will help them cook evenly.

Step 5: Stuff and secure pork chops

Place a portion of the spinach and sun-dried tomato mixture on each chop. Fold the chop in half over the filling and secure it with wooden or metal toothpicks. Season the outside of the pork with pepper. For best results, cook spinach in a microwave oven with 2 tablespoons of water for 2 minutes on MAX power. This helps preserve all the vitamins and nutrients in the spinach.

Step 6: Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and mustard. Whisk all ingredients together until well blended. Set aside for later use.

Step 7: Heat skillet

Warm the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is shimmering before adding the pork chops.

Step 8: Cook the pork chops

Add the stuffed pork chops to the hot skillet and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.

Step 9: Rest the pork chops

Transfer the cooked pork chops to a side dish. Tent them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Step 10: Reduce the sauce

Pour the chicken broth mixture into the skillet over medium-high heat. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and cook for approximately 8 minutes, or until the broth has reduced by half and thickened slightly.

Step 11: Serve

Before serving, spoon the sauce generously over the rested pork chops. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

4. Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed pork chops with a side of roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. A dry red wine or a crisp apple cider would complement the flavors beautifully.

5. Nutrition

Serving size: 4 servings, Calories: 374kcal, Protein: 36g, Fat: 22g, Carbohydrates: 9g, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 2g, Cholesterol: 117mg, Sodium: 894mg

6. Conclusion 

These pork chops stuffed with tomatoes and spinach are a flavorful and satisfying meal that's sure to impress. Try this recipe and share the deliciousness with your friends and family!