Chile-Lime Pork with Summer Salsa
Smoky grilled pork chops pair with peak-summer Washington zucchini and a juicy charred corn–tomato salsa for a fast, colorful Mexican-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
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Boneless Pork Loin Chop2 chops (12 ounces total) $6.21
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Organic Zucchini Squash12 ounces $2.77
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Bi-color Corn2 ears $0.79
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Organic Heirloom Tomatoes8 ounces $4.43
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Cilantro Bunch1/4 cup chopped $1.19
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Lime1 $0.69
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Organic Garlic1 clove $2.89
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Olive oil2 tablespoons
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Ground cumin1 teaspoon
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Chili powder1 teaspoon
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Smoked paprika1/2 teaspoon
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Kosher salt1 teaspoon
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Black pepper1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat a grill to medium-high, about 425°F. Pat 2 pork chops (12 ounces total) dry, then coat them with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Cut 12 ounces zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch planks; toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Grill the seasoned 12 ounces pork for 4–5 minutes per side, until lightly charred and 145°F at the center; transfer it to a board and rest for 5 minutes. At the same time, grill 2 ears corn for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until spotted with char.
- Grill the seasoned 12 ounces zucchini for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and just tender, then transfer it to a platter.
- Cut the kernels from the grilled 2 ears corn. Combine them with 8 ounces diced heirloom tomatoes, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1 minced garlic clove, the juice and zest of 1 lime, 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Slice the rested 12 ounces pork and divide it between two plates; add the grilled 12 ounces zucchini and spoon all of the corn-tomato salsa over and alongside the pork.
Total time: 35 minutes
Estimated cost: $14–$17
Health notes: About 600 calories per serving, with roughly 40 grams of protein plus fiber-rich corn, zucchini, and tomatoes.
Drink pairing: A crisp Mexican lager or chilled Sauvignon Blanc balances the smoky pork and bright lime salsa.