Name: Pork Chops and Squash with Pumpkin Seed Vinaigrette
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Yield: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas); 3 pounds winter squash (such as acorn, kabocha, delicata, or butternut), halved, seeded, cut into 1" wedges; 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided; Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper; 4 1"-thick bone-in pork chops; 1/2 small garlic clove, finely grated; 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro plus leaves for garnish; 2 tablespoons (or more) fresh lime juice

Pork Chops and Squash with Pumpkin Seed VinaigretteChris Morocco

There's no need to peel acorn, kabocha, or delicata squash; their skins are tender and edible, and add extra color and texture to the dish.

Recipe information

Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

2 tablespoons shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

3 pounds winter squash (such as acorn, kabocha, delicata, or butternut), halved, seeded, cut into 1" wedges

5 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

4 1"-thick bone-in pork chops

1/2 small garlic clove, finely grated

3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro plus leaves for garnish

2 tablespoons (or more) fresh lime juice

Preparation

Step 1
Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread out pumpkin seeds on a large rimmed baking sheet. Toast, tossing once, until just beginning to darken, about 4 minutes. Let cool. Coarsely chop; set aside.
Step 2
Toss squash with 1 tablespoon oil on a large rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Roast squash, turning occasionally, until golden brown and tender, 35-40 minutes.
Step 3
When squash has been roasting for 30 minutes, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper and cook until brown, 5-8 minutes. Turn over and cook until pork is cooked through, about 3 minutes longer.
Step 4
Whisk garlic, 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice, reserved toasted pumpkin seeds, and remaining 3 tablespoons oil in a small bowl to combine. Season vinaigrette with salt, pepper, and more lime juice, if desired.
Step 5
Divide squash and pork among plates; spoon vinaigrette over. Top with cilantro leaves.