Imagine the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly roasted pork loin wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of apples and the earthy goodness of potatoes and carrots. This delightful dish, "Pork Loin with Apples, Potatoes, and Carrots," is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will leave your family and friends begging for seconds! With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Dive into our step-by-step guide and discover how to create a mouthwatering feast that will have everyone raving about your culinary skills!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (3-4 lb) pork loin
- 2 apples, sliced
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pork loin from refrigeration and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tablespoon of rosemary, rubbing the seasonings into the meat.
- In a large roasting pan, drizzle olive oil to coat the bottom. Arrange cubed potatoes and sliced carrots around the edges of the pan, creating a bed for the pork loin.
- Place the seasoned pork loin in the center of the roasting pan. Scatter sliced apples around and on top of the meat, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining rosemary over the vegetables and apples. Drizzle an additional tablespoon of olive oil over the entire dish.
- Cover the roasting pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Place in preheated oven and roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove foil to allow meat and vegetables to brown. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature - pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, remove from oven and let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Slice pork loin into 1/2-inch thick pieces, serving with roasted apples, potatoes, and carrots. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Allow the pork loin to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly, resulting in a juicy, tender roast.
- Season Generously: Don't skimp on the salt and pepper! A generous seasoning will enhance the flavors of the pork and the accompanying vegetables, making each bite delicious.
- Layering for Flavor: Arrange the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots around the pork in the roasting pan. This not only creates a beautiful presentation but also allows the vegetables to soak up the savory juices from the meat as it cooks.
- Keep it Covered: Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil for the first part of cooking to prevent excessive browning. This allows the pork to cook through without drying out.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork is perfectly cooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This step is crucial for redistributing the juices, resulting in a moist and flavorful roast.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your dish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving. It adds a pop of color and enhances the dish's aromatic appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 100mg
