For a standout holiday dinner, start with this change-of-pace entree. Begin by simmering the chops in apple juice, then drizzle with sweet maple syrup and top with crunchy pecans.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup maple syrup, divided
• 4 bone-in pork loin chops (3/4 inch thick and 8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple juice
• 1 cup pecan halves

Directions

1. Mix mustard, pepper and 2 teaspoons syrup. Lightly drizzle over both sides of pork chops.
2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Brown pork chops 2-3 minutes on each side. Add apple juice. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until a thermometer reads 145°, 15-20 minutes. Remove chops; let stand 5 minutes, keeping them warm.
3. Add pecans and remaining syrup to skillet; cook and stir until blended, 1-2 minutes. Serve with pork chops.