Roast Pork Loin With Zucchini & Rosemary
Description
This elegant yet simple roast pork loin is infused with the aromatic flavors of fresh rosemary, garlic, and cracked black pepper. The herb rub creates a deliciously seasoned crust, while the interior remains juicy and tender. Roasted alongside until golden, the zucchini coins absorb the savory drippings, adding a fresh vegetable component to the plate. A quick pan sauce made with white wine deglazes the fond, bringing all the roasted flavors together. This dish is perfect for a special weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that feels homemade without the fuss.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400&# 194;°F (200ðC).
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Smash the garlic cloves with the side of a chef's knife, then strip the needles from the rosemary branch.
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In a small bowl, combine the smashed garlic, rosemary needles, cracked black peppercorns, salt, and cayenne pepper.
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Rub the herb mixture thoroughly over the entire surface of the boneless pork loin.
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Spray a roasting pan with nonstick cooking spray and place the seasoned pork loin inside.
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Roast the pork for 20 minutes until it begins to brown.
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Add 1/2 cup of water to the pan and turn the meat over using tongs.
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Continue roasting for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, adding 1/4 cup of water every 20 minutes if the pan becomes dry.
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Meanwhile, toss the zucchini coins with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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During the last 30 minutes of roasting, add the zucchini coins to the bottom of the pan around the pork.
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Roast until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 170ðF (77ðC) and the zucchini is tender.
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Remove the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
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Remove the zucchini from the pan and set aside on a warmed platter.
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Drain excess fat from the roasting pan, leaving the browned bits at the bottom.
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Place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat, add 1/4 cup white wine, and boil while scraping up the browned bits to create a sauce.
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Adjust the sauce seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Slice the rested pork into 3/4-inch thick slices.
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Arrange the zucchini on the platter, fan the pork slices over the top, and spoon the pan sauce over everything before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 505.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.9g6%
- Saturated Fat 0.7g4%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 85.1mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 109.0g37%
- Dietary Fiber 12.5g50%
- Sugars 3.1g
- Protein 20.8g42%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked safely but remains juicy. The internal temperature should reach 145ðF to 170ðF depending on preference, followed by a rest period.
If fresh rosemary is unavailable, dried rosemary can be used; however, it may need to be rehydrated slightly or used in a smaller quantity as it is more potent.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the pork from drying out.
For a richer pan sauce, you can add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth along with the wine, or finish with a knob of butter for extra gloss.