Herb-Crusted Pork with Pasta

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

   3 min hands-on11 min waiting

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
   • Cook the whole-grain pasta until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
   • Drain and rinse briefly under cold water. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

   4 min hands-on

   • Slice the yellow pepper into thin strips.
   • Finely chop the onion and garlic.
   • Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add half the olive oil.
   • Add the yellow peppers and onions with a pinch of salt.
   • Crush the bay leaves and add to the pan.

3. Cook the Sweet and Tangy Peppers

   2 min hands-on5 min waiting

   • Cover the pan and cook the peppers and onions, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5 minutes.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
   • Add sugar and vinegar, mixing well. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Season the Pork

   3 min hands-on

   • Pat the pork shoulder dry and cut into thick portions.
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat.

5. Cook the Pork

   12 min hands-on8 min waiting

   • Heat a clean frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Place pork fat-side down and cook until fat is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Flip and sear each side until deeply browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Add rosemary and cook until pork reaches 145°F (63°C), about 5-6 minutes.
   • Remove from pan and let rest for 5-10 minutes.

6. Assemble the Herby Pasta

   2 min hands-on

   • Transfer pasta to a large bowl.
   • Finely chop fresh parsley and mix into pasta.
   • Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss to coat.

7. Plate the Dish

   3 min hands-on

   • Spread Greek yogurt on each plate.
   • Place herby pasta on top of yogurt.
   • Add sweet and tangy peppers and onions over pasta.
   • Top with rosemary-infused pork.

8. Serve and Enjoy

   1 min hands-on

   • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.
   • Cooking tips:
   • For juicy pork, let the meat rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
   • Toast the paprika in a dry pan for 30 seconds before rubbing it onto the pork to enhance flavors.
   • If peppers and onions stick to the pan, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze.
   • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the desired doneness without overcooking.