Carolyn'S Roasted Garlic Pork Supper
A flavorful roasted pork dinner infused with garlic, herbs, and roasted vegetables, perfect for family gatherings or comforting weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove papery outer skin from garlic bulbs without peeling or separating cloves. Cut the tops off, leaving the root end intact.
- Brush garlic bulbs with oil and sprinkle with dried basil and oregano.
- Wrap each garlic bulb in heavy-duty foil and bake at 425°F for 30 to 35 minutes until softened.
- Cool garlic for 10 to 15 minutes, then squeeze softened garlic into a small bowl and add lemon juice. Mix well.
- Rub the garlic mixture over the boneless pork loin roast.
- Place the roast in a shallow roasting pan and arrange the quartered potatoes, baby carrots, and sliced onion around it.
- Pour water into the pan, sprinkle meat and vegetables with salt and pepper.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 1 1/2 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F, basting often.
- Cover and let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme alongside the dried basil and oregano. You can substitute the pork loin with a pork tenderloin for a leaner option. If you prefer a slight sweetness, add a drizzle of honey to the garlic mixture before rubbing it on the roast. Also, try adding other root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roasted pork with the tender vegetables, drizzled with the pan juices for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts. For more delicious pork recipes, explore the section on American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork and vegetables in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolyn'S Roasted Garlic Pork Supper contains roughly 458 calories, with 19g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (101% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), and calcium (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 531mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use garlic powder instead of whole garlic bulbs?
While garlic powder can be used in a pinch, using whole garlic bulbs provides a richer, sweeter flavor that cannot be replicated. If you must use garlic powder, start with 1-2 teaspoons and adjust to taste, but be aware that the texture and depth of flavor will differ.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice on hand, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes. They will impart a similar level of acidity. For a sweeter note, you could use a bit of apple juice mixed with vinegar, but adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After rubbing the pork with the garlic mixture, place it in the slow cooker with the vegetables and water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and reaches the desired temperature.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).