1 (6 oz.) box rice pilaf mix, such as Near East brand

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)

4 (1-inch-thick) center-cut pork loin chops

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 small onion, chopped

1 T. fresh thyme leaves (from a couple of sprigs), chopped

1 sprig of fresh rosemary, chopped

3 garlic cloves, chopped

1/4 C. balsamic vinegar (eyeball it)

2 T. honey

1 C. chicken stock or broth

2 C. trimmed and chopped arugula (from 1 bunch)

15 to 20 fresh basil leaves, shredded or torn

 

In a medium pot over high heat, combine 1 T. of the butter and 1 3/4 C. water. Cover and bring to a simmer. Add the rice and flavor packet to the water. Stir to combine, reduce the heat, and cook for 18 minutes, covered. While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for the chops. Add 2 T. of the EVOO (twice around the pan). Season the chops with salt and pepper, then add to the hot skillet. Cook the chops for 5 minutes on each side. Transfer the chops to a platter and cover with foil. Return the pan to the heat and add the remaining T. of EVOO and the onions, thyme, rosemary, and garlic, then sauté for 4 to 5 minutes. Add the balsamic vinegar, honey, and chicken stock. Cook until the liquids have reduced by half. While the glaze is reducing, finish the rice pilaf. Add the arugula and basil to the cooked rice, stirring with a fork to fluff the rice and combine the greens at the same time. Once the balsamic glaze has reduced by half, turn off the heat and add the remaining 2 T. of cold butter. Stir and shake the pan until the butter melts. Add the chops to the pan and coat them in the balsamic glaze. Serve the glazed chops alongside the arugula-basil rice pilaf.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber: