Herb Crusted Roasted Pork Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming a humble pork loin into a stunning dinner centerpiece, and I’m here to show you exactly how to make it happen with just a few simple steps and a touch of gourmet flair.

I love creating dishes that blend flavor and texture seamlessly, and my Herb Crusted Roasted Pork does just that. With its fragrant mix of fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic, along with the tang of Dijon mustard and brightness from lemon zest, this dish offers a delightful crust complemented by breadcrumbs and Parmesan.

This combination not only enhances taste but also packs a nutritional punch with protein from the pork and essential vitamins from the herbs.

Herb Crusted Roasted Pork Recipe Ingredients

• Boneless pork loin roast: A lean protein source, rich in vitamins B6 and B12.
• Olive oil: Heart-healthy fats that enhance flavor and texture.
• Fresh rosemary: Aromatic herb, supports digestion and adds earthy flavor.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Provides antioxidants, adds depth and citrus notes.
• Garlic: Boosts immunity, adds robust flavor and aroma.
• Lemon zest: Brightens with citrusy tang, rich in vitamin C.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy texture and absorbs flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and enhances savory notes.

Herb Crusted Roasted Pork Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 boneless pork loin roast (about 3-4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make this Herb Crusted Roasted Pork Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.

2. Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels and rub it all over with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

3. Season the pork with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring it’s evenly covered.

4. In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and lemon zest to form a herb paste.

5. Rub the herb paste over the entire surface of the pork, pressing gently to adhere.

6. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining olive oil to slightly moisten the mix.

7. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the pork, ensuring it covers the herb paste entirely for a crust.

8. Place the pork in the prepared roasting pan and insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast.

9. Roast in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), about 60-75 minutes, depending on the size.

10. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute. Serve warm.

Herb Crusted Roasted Pork Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Roasting pan
3. Aluminum foil
4. Paper towels
5. Small bowl (2)
6. Spoon or spatula
7. Measuring spoons
8. Meat thermometer
9. Knife
10. Cutting board for slicing
11. Serving platter

FAQ

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute dried herbs. Use 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary and 1.5 teaspoons of dried thyme since dried herbs are more potent.
• Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard? While Dijon mustard adds a unique flavor, you can use regular yellow mustard or honey mustard as an alternative.
• What is the best way to ensure the pork is cooked thoroughly? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
• Can I prepare the herb mix in advance? Yes, the herb crust mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• What side dishes go well with this pork roast? Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
• How do I store leftovers? Wrap the leftovers tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be consumed within 3-4 days.
• Can I freeze the cooked pork roast? Yes, allow the pork to cool completely, then wrap it in freezer-safe packaging. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Herb Crusted Roasted Pork Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For olive oil: Substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
• For Dijon mustard: Use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard.
• For fresh rosemary: Substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary.
• For fresh thyme leaves: Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
• For breadcrumbs: Replace with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.

Pro Tips

1. *Room Temperature*: Before cooking, let the pork roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking throughout the roast.

2. *Seasoning Underneath*: Consider making small cuts or slits on the surface of the pork loin and stuffing them with some garlic or herbs for enhanced flavor distribution.

3. *Searing for Flavor*: For a deeper flavor, quickly sear the pork in a hot skillet with olive oil before applying the herb paste. This creates a nice crust and locks in juices.

4. *Rest for Juiciness*: Resting the pork after cooking is crucial. Tent it with foil during this time to keep it warm and to allow the juices to redistribute, which will result in a moister roast.

5. *Customize Breadcrumbs*: Enhance the breadcrumb mixture with a pinch of your favorite spices like paprika or cayenne for an added kick of flavor.