Ingredients:

For the Grilled Pork Neck:

• 500 g pork neck (about 1 lb)
• 3 onions (1 red, 2 regular white or yellow)
• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• Butter (for cooking)
• Fresh parsley (a few sprigs)
• Fresh coriander (a few sprigs)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

• 1 red pepper (diced)
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
• Fresh dill (a few sprigs)
• Fresh parsley (a few sprigs)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps on How to Do It:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Neck

1. Start by preparing the pork neck. Trim any excess fat if necessary, and cut it into chunks or leave it as one whole piece, depending on your preference.
2. Season the pork with salt and pepper to taste. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and rub the pork with the garlic, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Chop 1 onion finely and sprinkle it over the pork. Add a few sprigs of fresh parsley and coriander for a burst of flavor.
4. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can also let it marinate for a few hours if you prefer a stronger flavor.
5. Heat butter in a grill pan or barbecue grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pork neck on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and slightly crispy on the outside.
6. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

1. While the pork is cooking, prepare the salad. Dice the red pepper and slice the avocado into thin slices.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the red onion thinly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, red onion, red pepper, and avocado. Add minced garlic, fresh dill, and parsley to the bowl, tossing everything together gently.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Serve

1. Slice the rested pork neck into thin strips or chunks, depending on your preference.
2. Plate the grilled pork alongside the fresh avocado and cherry tomato salad.
3. Garnish with extra fresh herbs, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time:

• Active Prep: 20 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes (can be longer for deeper flavor)
• Total Prep: 50 minutes

Cooking Time:

• Grilling the Pork: 30-40 minutes (depending on thickness of the pork and desired doneness)

Total Time:

• Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (including marination)

Servings:

• Serves 4

Calories (per serving):

• Approximately 400 kcal

Explanation of the Recipe’s Timeless Appeal:

This Grilled Pork Neck with Avocado & Cherry Tomato Salad combines the rich, savory flavors of grilled pork with the freshness of a vibrant, vegetable-packed salad. The juicy pork neck, with its tender, fatty texture, offers a hearty contrast to the crisp and refreshing salad, making it a perfect dish for any time of the year. The mustard and lemon dressing provides a zesty tang that enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and avocado, creating a balanced and well-rounded meal. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley, coriander, and dill gives the dish a fragrant, aromatic quality that elevates each bite.

Pork has long been a beloved meat in many culinary traditions, appreciated for its ability to pair well with a variety of flavors. The addition of the fresh salad makes this dish versatile and light enough to enjoy during warmer months, while still being hearty enough to satisfy in the cooler months. The tangy, mustard-based dressing complements the richness of the pork, bringing an extra layer of complexity to the dish. This timeless recipe is sure to become a family favorite due to its balance of flavors, textures, and the satisfying satisfaction it provides.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugars: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use another cut of pork instead of the neck?
Yes, you can substitute the pork neck with pork loin, tenderloin, or shoulder. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the cut.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
While the pork can be grilled in advance and reheated, the salad is best served fresh to maintain its crunch and vibrant flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the mustard you use is free of gluten.

Q: Can I use a different dressing for the salad?
Absolutely! You can customize the dressing by adding herbs, switching up the vinegar (like balsamic or apple cider vinegar), or even using Greek yogurt for a creamier version.

Tips on How to Make:

1. Grill the Pork with Care: When grilling the pork neck, make sure to keep the heat at a medium-high level so the meat cooks through while developing a golden, crispy exterior. If you are using a barbecue, ensure the grill is preheated for the best results.
2. Season the Salad Generously: Fresh herbs like dill and parsley give the salad a unique flavor profile, so don’t skimp on these! A generous sprinkle of salt and pepper will also bring out the flavors of the vegetables and the dressing.
3. Use Fresh Avocado: Make sure the avocado is ripe but firm enough to hold its shape in the salad. If it’s overripe, it may turn mushy, which could affect the texture of the salad.

Storage Tips:

• Leftovers: Store any leftover grilled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan to maintain its tenderness.
• Salad: The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it’s best eaten fresh. If you plan on storing it, avoid adding the dressing until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Conclusion:

This Grilled Pork Neck with Avocado & Cherry Tomato Salad is an excellent balance of rich, hearty flavors and fresh, vibrant textures. The tender grilled pork, paired with the creamy avocado, sweet tomatoes, and crisp vegetables, makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. With its fresh herbs and zesty dressing, this dish is full of flavor and can be enjoyed year-round, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you are cooking for a special dinner or a casual family meal, this recipe is sure to impress and become a cherished favorite in your home. Enjoy the combination of juicy pork and refreshing salad that provides the perfect harmony of flavors.