Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork

Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and spices creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the pork with amazing flavor. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its tender and juicy results.

History

This recipe for Herb-and-Garlic Pork has been a favorite in Lynn's family for generations. It originated from her grandmother, who passed it down to her mother, and now Lynn continues the tradition by making it for her own family. The marinade has been perfected over the years, creating a dish that is full of flavor and loved by all who try it.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of olive oil
6 cloves of minced garlic
2 tbsp of snipped fresh basil
2 tbsp of snipped chives or chopped green onion
2 tsp of chili powder or 0.25 tsp of ground red pepper
1 tsp of snipped fresh sage or oregano
1 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of pepper
1 x 3-to 4 lb (1.81 kg) boneless pork top loin roast (double loin, tied)

How to prepare

In a small mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except meat.
Place the meat in a large plastic bag set in a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the meat.
Close the bag and turn it several times.
Marinate the meat in the refrigerator for 2 to 24 hours, turning occasionally.
Remove the meat from the bag.
Discard the marinade.
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast (or use an instant-read thermometer to start checking the roast after 1 hour of grilling).
In a covered grill, arrange preheated coals around a drip pan (or follow the manufacturer's directions for cooking over indirect heat on your gas grill).
Test for medium-low heat above the pan.
Place the meat on the grill rack over the drip pan.
Cover and grill for 1.5 to 2.25 hours or until the meat thermometer registers 155°F (68°C).
Remove the roast and cover it with foil.
Let the roast stand for 15 minutes before carving (the internal temperature of the meat should rise 5°F (-15°C) upon standing, to 160°F).
Remove the strings and slice the meat to serve.
Use any leftover pork for sandwiches.

Variations

Try using different herbs in the marinade, such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley, to change up the flavor profile of the dish.
For a spicier version, add more ground red pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Substitute the pork loin roast with pork chops or tenderloin for a different cut of meat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork is cooked to the proper temperature, which is 155°F (68°C) for medium doneness.

- Let the pork rest for 15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.

Serving Suggestions

This Herb-and-Garlic Pork pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It can also be served with a side of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. Garnish with additional fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the pork over indirect heat is the best way to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays tender and juicy. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature of the meat with a thermometer to prevent overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all of the fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Just reduce the amount by half, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh. You can also substitute the olive oil with another type of oil, such as avocado or grapeseed oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop even more and makes for a more flavorful dish.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the pork roast and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Herb-and-Garlic Pork pairs well with a variety of wines, such as a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc. For non-alcoholic options, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with fresh fruit or herbs.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a moderate-calorie dish that can fit into a balanced diet when paired with healthy side dishes.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Each serving contains only a small amount of carbs, mainly from the fresh herbs and spices used in the marinade.

Fats

The main source of fat in this recipe comes from the olive oil used in the marinade. Olive oil is a healthy fat that is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The pork itself also contains some fat, but it is leaner than other cuts of meat.

Proteins

Pork is a good source of protein, with each serving of this dish providing a substantial amount of this essential nutrient. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important part of a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

The fresh herbs used in this recipe provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being, and adding them to your diet through flavorful dishes like this one is a great way to boost your intake.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic, which is a common allergen for some individuals. If you or your guests have a garlic allergy, be sure to omit this ingredient or substitute it with a different herb or spice.

Summary

Overall, Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with flavor and protein. It is relatively low in carbs and calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without overindulging.

Summary

Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering. With a mouthwatering marinade of fresh herbs, garlic, and spices, this pork roast is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago when I was attending a cooking class at the community center. The instructor, Lynn, was a seasoned chef with a passion for herbs and garlic. She had a way of making even the simplest ingredients come alive with flavor.

I remember watching in awe as Lynn demonstrated how to prepare her Herb-and-Garlic Pork. She carefully seasoned the meat with a blend of fresh herbs and minced garlic, then seared it to perfection in a hot skillet. The aroma that filled the room was intoxicating, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After the class, I approached Lynn and asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed and invited me to her home the following week for a private cooking lesson. I couldn't wait to learn the secrets behind her delicious pork dish.

When I arrived at Lynn's house, she greeted me with a warm smile and led me into her cozy kitchen. As we worked together to prepare the Herb-and-Garlic Pork, Lynn shared stories of how she had learned to cook from her own grandmother. She told me about the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to truly savor the flavors of each dish.

I watched closely as Lynn seasoned the pork with a mixture of rosemary, thyme, and oregano, then rubbed it with a generous amount of minced garlic. She explained that the key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors was to let the meat marinate for several hours before cooking it.

As the pork sizzled in the skillet, I could hardly contain my excitement. The savory aroma of herbs and garlic filled the air, and I knew that this dish was going to be something truly special.

When the Herb-and-Garlic Pork was finally finished cooking, Lynn plated it up and we sat down to enjoy our meal together. With each bite, I could taste the love and care that had gone into preparing this dish. The flavors were bold and robust, yet perfectly balanced – just as Lynn had promised.

As we finished our meal, I couldn't help but thank Lynn for sharing her recipe with me. She had not only taught me how to make a delicious dish, but had also inspired me to approach cooking with passion and creativity.

Over the years, I have made Lynn's Best Herb-and-Garlic Pork countless times for family and friends. Each time, it brings back memories of that first cooking lesson with Lynn and reminds me of the joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned this recipe from such a talented chef, and I will always cherish the memories of the time spent in Lynn's kitchen. Her Herb-and-Garlic Pork will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.