Pork steak with pasta and olives

Pork Steak with Pasta and Olives: A Savory Feast in Just 25 Minutes

If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and aromatic recipe, pork steak with pasta and olives is the perfect choice! This recipe combines juicy pork meat with the soft texture of pasta and the intense flavor of olives, all ready in just 25 minutes. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a night with friends, you'll surely leave an unforgettable impression. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Essential ingredients:
- 4 pork chops (about 400-500 g)
- 200 g pasta (preferably Farfalle, but you can use any type you prefer)
- 3 tablespoons of pitted olives (you can choose green or black olives, according to your preference)
- 3 tablespoons of sweet mustard
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar (balsamic or wine vinegar would add an interesting note)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 2 teaspoons of dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons of dried basil

Step by step to a perfect result:

1. Marinating the meat:
In a small bowl, mix the mustard, olive oil (optional but recommended for a richer taste), vinegar, thyme, and basil. This mixture will serve as a marinade for the pork chops. Rub the mixture well into the meat, ensuring each piece is coated. Let the meat marinate for 10 minutes. This step is essential for adding depth and intense flavors.

2. Preparing the ingredients:
Meanwhile, peel and finely chop the garlic. Slice the olives to add them to the final sauce. They will provide a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

3. Boiling the pasta:
In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water with a little salt and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Cooking the meat:
In a deep skillet, heat a little olive oil and add the marinated pork chops. Sear them on each side until browned (about 4-5 minutes on each side). Make sure they are well browned but do not overcook them to keep them juicy.

5. Creating the sauce:
After the meat is cooked, add the remaining marinade, half a glass of water, the olives, and the chopped garlic to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for another 2-3 minutes so that the flavors meld together.

6. Combining the dishes:
When the pasta is cooked, drain it and transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the steak sauce over the pasta and mix well so that each piece of pasta is coated with this delicious sauce.

7. Serving:
Serve the pork steak with pasta and olives immediately while hot. You can garnish the plate with some fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical tips:
- You can vary the recipe by using different types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, if you prefer leaner alternatives.
- Olives can be replaced with capers or piquillo peppers for a fresh twist.
- If you love spicy food, add a little chili pepper to the marinade or sprinkle chili flakes in the final sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is an excellent source of protein due to the pork and whole grain pasta, which provides complex carbohydrates. Olives bring healthy fats and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, providing more fiber and nutrients.
2. How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, you can keep the dish in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet, adding a little water to maintain juiciness.

Complementary recipes:
To complement this meal, you can serve a simple green salad with tomatoes and feta cheese, alongside a dry white wine or freshly made lemonade.

This pork steak with pasta and olives recipe is not only delicious but also offers a quick way to bring joy to your kitchen. I hope you try it and that it brings you as much pleasure as it brought me! Enjoy your meal!