This Herbed Pork Loin is an easy yet impressive dish that’s packed with flavor. With a perfect blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, it creates a mouthwatering crust on the tender pork. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Simple yet flavorful: The fresh herbs create a savory crust that makes each bite delicious.
- Quick and easy: With just a few ingredients and steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Juicy and tender: The pork loin is perfectly roasted to give you a juicy, flavorful result.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork loin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Full list of ingredients and measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork loin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork loin for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- For even more flavor, marinate the pork loin with the herb mixture for 2-4 hours before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches the perfect internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness.
- Don’t skip the resting time! It allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the pork tender.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap the pork loin for pork tenderloin for a slightly leaner option.
- Add other herbs like sage or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a crispy crust, broil the pork for 2-3 minutes after roasting.
- For a touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the herb mixture.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Herbed Pork Loin pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. A glass of red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, complements the savory flavors beautifully. For a light side, try pairing it with sautéed greens or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the pork in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
2. Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the pork loin in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours for a more tender result. Sear the pork first for added flavor.
3. How do I know when the pork is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
4. Can I freeze the leftover pork?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover pork for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion
This Herbed Pork Loin is an easy-to-make yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a perfect balance of fresh herbs and tender pork, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Try it tonight and enjoy the flavors of a delicious, hearty meal!
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Herbed Pork Loin: A Flavorful and Hearty Meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Roast
- Method: Roasting, Searing
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This herbed pork loin recipe creates a deliciously tender roast, packed with the earthy flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon. The perfect meal for family dinners, special occasions, or holiday feasts. The pork is slow-roasted to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb (1.4-1.8 kg) pork loin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Rub this herb mixture evenly over the pork loin, covering it completely.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil, then sear the pork loin on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Once the pork is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and white wine (if using). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Return the pork loin to the skillet and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- While the pork rests, add butter to the pan juices and stir to make a flavorful sauce.
- Slice the pork and serve with the pan sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- The mustard and lemon zest in the herb mixture add a tangy contrast to the savory pork.
- For extra tenderness, you can brine the pork loin for a few hours before cooking.
- Serve the pork with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be used in sandwiches or salads.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg