There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked pork loin to make a meal special. I stumbled upon this fantastic recipe during a visit to a charming little restaurant, and it completely transformed the way I cook meat at home. The blend of flavors and the simplicity of the steps make it a go-to dish for any occasion. Today, I’m thrilled to share this delightful restaurant-style pork loin recipe with you. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork loin
- 2 pinches of salt (divided)
- 2 pinches of black pepper (divided)
- 1 drizzle of olive oil (divided)
- 1 red onion, chopped into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into strips
- 1 red chili pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 50 grams chopped spinach leaves
- 5 sprigs rosemary
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Loin: Start by cutting the pork loin into slices. Season each slice with a pinch of salt and a pinch of black pepper on both sides. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped red onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until they begin to soften.
- Add the chopped red chili pepper and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar and granulated sugar, allowing them to caramelize slightly.
- Add the chopped spinach leaves and cook until they wilt. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Pork:
- In another large skillet, heat another drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned pork slices and cook until browned on both sides.
- Add the rosemary sprigs, butter, and crushed garlic cloves to the skillet. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the pork is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the pork, gently stirring to combine all the ingredients.
- Allow everything to heat through for a couple of minutes.
5. Enjoy: Serve the pork loin slices with the caramelized vegetables. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.
Tips for the Perfect Pork Loin
- Quality Meat: Choose a high-quality pork loin for the best results. The freshness of the meat significantly impacts the overall flavor.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors of the pork.
- Heat Control: Maintain medium to medium-high heat while cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Variations
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference. Mushrooms, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes can be great additions.
- Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of rosemary, thyme or sage can be excellent alternatives.
- Spice It Up: For those who like it hot, add extra chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: This pork loin pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a simple green salad.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay can complement the flavors of this dish wonderfully.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A: Yes, you can use pork tenderloin or pork chops if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and season the pork in advance. Cook everything just before serving for the best flavor.
Conclusion
This restaurant-style pork loin recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques can create a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!
You Might Also Like…
