Herbed Pork Loin
Herbed pork loin is a flavorful, tender dish featuring garlic and oregano, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering savory and aromatic notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel garlic and cut each clove into 3 or 4 slivers.
- Make incisions at random on the fat side of the loin large enough to insert the garlic slivers.
- Pat dried oregano onto all surfaces and ends of the roast.
- Place the roast on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the roast, avoiding the fat.
- Roast at 325°F until the thermometer reaches 170°F.
- Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes.
- Slice and serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork loin in olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have dried oregano, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute. Ensure your meat thermometer is accurate to avoid overcooking, as pork is best enjoyed when it reaches the recommended internal temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed pork loin sliced against the grain for tender pieces. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley. Consider a side of homemade scrapple or a crisp salad to complement the rich flavors of the pork.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover herbed pork loin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, slice the meat and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through, keeping it moist with broth or water.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Pork Loin contains roughly 347 calories, with 20g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1500mg per serving (65% 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 a bone-in pork loin for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bone-in pork loin. Just be aware that it may take longer to cook than a boneless loin. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 170°F for safe consumption.
What can I serve with herbed pork loin?
Herbed pork loin pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, try serving it alongside a warm bowl of chipped ham sandwich filling.
How do I know when the pork loin is done cooking?
The best way to check if the pork loin is done cooking is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding any fat, and look for a temperature of 170°F. This ensures it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
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).