Blackened Pork Chops with Fresh Peach Cucumber Salsa

Looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe? Look no further than these blackened pork chops with fresh peach cucumber salsa! This dish is perfect for those warm summer days when you want something light and refreshing, yet still satisfying.

The blackened pork chops are seasoned with a blend of spices that give them a smoky, slightly spicy flavor. Paired with the sweet and tangy peach cucumber salsa, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any fresh peaches or cucumbers you may have on hand.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your dinner guests, these blackened pork chops with peach cucumber salsa are sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal!

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About Blackened Pork Chops

History

Blackening is a cooking technique that originated in Louisiana in the 1980s. It involves coating meat, usually fish or chicken, with a blend of spices and then searing it in a hot cast-iron skillet until the spices blacken and form a crust. The technique was popularized by Chef Paul Prudhomme, who used it to create his famous blackened redfish dish.

Blackening is a great way to add flavor and texture to meats, and it works particularly well with pork chops. The spices used in blackening, which typically include paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, complement the natural sweetness of the pork and create a delicious smoky flavor.

Culinary Importance

Blackened pork chops are a popular dish in Southern cuisine, and they are often served with a variety of sides, such as cornbread, collard greens, and sweet potatoes. The dish is also a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts, who appreciate its bold flavor and the way the spices complement the smoky flavor of the meat.

When preparing blackened pork chops, it’s important to use a cast-iron skillet, which will get hot enough to sear the meat and create a crust. It’s also important to use a spice blend that is well-balanced and not too spicy, as the heat can overwhelm the flavor of the meat.

Overall, blackened pork chops are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this dish is sure to please.

About Peach Cucumber Salsa

Origin

Peach cucumber salsa is a fresh and fruity salsa that originated in the United States. It is believed to have originated in the southern states where peaches are abundant during the summer months. The combination of sweet summer peaches and crisp cucumbers makes for a refreshing and delicious salsa that is perfect for warm weather.

Culinary Use

Peach cucumber salsa is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly served with grilled meats such as chicken, pork, and fish. It can also be used as a dip for tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos and salads.

Here are some ways you can use peach cucumber salsa in your cooking:

• Serve it alongside grilled pork chops or chicken breasts.
• Use it as a topping for fish tacos.
• Mix it with cooked quinoa or rice for a flavorful side dish.
• Use it as a dip for your favorite tortilla chips or pita bread.
• Spoon it over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.

Peach cucumber salsa is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. It typically includes diced peaches, cucumbers, red onion, jalapeno peppers, lime juice, and cilantro. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeno peppers.

In summary, peach cucumber salsa is a delicious and refreshing condiment that is perfect for summer. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes and it is easy to make at home. I especially like to pair it with the savory recipe of the blackened pork chops.

Ingredients for Blackened Pork Chops

To make delicious Blackened Juicy Pork Chops with Peach Cucumber Salsa, you will need a few ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Pork Chops:

• 2 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick) or boneless pork chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Rub (Cajun Seasoning)

I make the rub in bulk so I don’t have to make it every time I want to use it. I use it for other delicious recipes including Cajun Chicken Caesar Salad and Blackened Fish for Tacos

• 3 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Peach Cucumber Salsa:

• 1 peach, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, diced
• 1/2 of a  jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
• Handful of chopped fresh cilantro
•  lime juice from 1/2 of a lime
• 1 teaspoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to choose ripe peaches for the salsa, as they will provide the best flavor. You can also adjust the amount of jalapeno to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the salsa to be.

In addition to these ingredients, you will also need a grill or grill pan to cook the pork chops. With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to get started on making a delicious and flavorful meal.

Preparing the Peach Cucumber Salsa

To start, gather all of your ingredients and chop the peach, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped ingredients, olive oil, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Unlike tomato salsa which I like to sit a room temperature, I put the peach salsa into the refrigerator to cool. It makes the peaches and cucumbers all the more refreshing.

You can also store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

If you prefer a spicier salsa, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeño pepper. If you want a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the pepper before chopping.

This Peach Cucumber Salsa is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, and it pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the Blackened Pork Chops. 

If you prefer you can substitute the peach for a cup of mango for mango salsa.

Cooking Method for Blackened Pork Chops

Preparation

Before cooking the blackened pork chops, make sure to have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. You will need:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-2 tablespoons of Blackening Rub
• Peach cucumber salsa (for serving)

To prepare the pork chops, brush with about a tablespoon of olive oil and rub the spice mixture all over the pork chops, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.

Cooking

To cook the pork chops, follow these steps:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.
3. Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until blackened and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
4. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F.
5. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Serve with peach cucumber salsa on top.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through. You can also grill the pork chops. Spray the grill grates with cooking spray. Then preheat the grill so you have a hot grill. Place the pork chops on the grill grates, searing them on both sides for about a minute. Then move the porch chops to an indirect heat spot and let cook until cooked through. 

Serving Suggestions

Once you have prepared your delicious blackened pork chops with peach cucumber salsa, it’s time to think about serving suggestions. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Pair with a Side Salad

A simple side salad can be the perfect complement to your flavorful pork chops. Consider a mix of greens, such as spinach or arugula, topped with sliced cherry tomatoes, sliced almonds, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The salad will add a refreshing crunch and balance out the rich flavors of the pork chops.

2. Serve with Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a great way to add some color and nutrition to your plate. Try roasting some carrots, broccoli, or sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The sweet and savory flavors of the vegetables will complement the pork chops nicely.

3. Add a Starch

If you’re looking for something a bit more filling, consider adding a starch to your plate. Some options include roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or brown rice. The starch will help balance out the meal and keep you feeling satisfied.

4. Pair with Wine

A glass of wine can be the perfect way to round out your meal. Consider a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, which will complement the flavors of the pork chops and salsa. If you prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can also work well.

If wine isn’t your thing, you can pair it with a great craft beer. 

Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy your meal and savor the delicious flavors of your blackened pork chops with peach cucumber salsa. Bon appétit!

Conclusion

You’ve just learned how to make a delicious and easy-to-prepare dish of Blackened Pork Chops with Peach Cucumber Salsa. This recipe is perfect for those who want to add a little bit of spice and sweetness to their meals.

The blackened pork chops are seasoned with a blend of spices that give them a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. The peach cucumber salsa, on the other hand, adds a refreshing and fruity taste to the dish.

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Pork is a good source of protein and vitamins, while peaches and cucumbers are rich in antioxidants and fiber.

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion, then this recipe is definitely worth a try. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Peace and Love,

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