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When it comes to creating a meal that resonates with warmth and comfort, few dishes can rival the succulent allure of herb-crusted pork loin with apples. This recipe encapsulates a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or special gatherings. The aromatic herb crust envelops the pork loin, providing a fragrant and flavorful experience, while the roasted apples introduce a natural sweetness, perfectly complementing the rich meat.

Herb Crusted Pork Loin with Apples

Discover the comforting flavors of herb-crusted pork loin with apples, a perfect dish for family gatherings and special occasions. This recipe features a succulent pork loin, enveloped in a fragrant herb crust and paired with sweet, caramelized apples. The balance of savory and sweet creates a delightful culinary experience that invites loved ones to the table. Learn how to master the art of roasting to ensure that each bite is juicy, flavorful, and visually appealing.
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Ingredients
  

2 to 3 pounds of boneless pork loin

1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, finely chopped

1 teaspoon of fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 teaspoon of smooth Dijon mustard

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 crisp apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon of honey

1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting.

    Make the Herb Paste: In a small mixing bowl, stir together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Combine thoroughly until it forms a thick paste.

      Prepare the Pork Loin: Start by patting the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Generously season the pork with salt and pepper. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts (about 1/4 inch deep) across the surface of the loin—this will help the flavors penetrate deeper.

        Apply the Herb Crust: Generously rub the herb paste all over the pork loin, ensuring it gets into the cuts for maximum flavor infusion.

          Sear the Pork: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork loin for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step helps to lock in the meat’s natural juices.

            Prepare the Apples and Onions: In a separate baking dish, combine the sliced apples and onions. Drizzle them with honey and apple cider vinegar. Toss the mixture gently to ensure that all pieces are evenly coated.

              Combine Ingredients for Roasting: Carefully place the seared pork loin on top of the apple and onion mixture within the baking dish. Pour the chicken broth around (but not over) the pork, creating a flavorful base that will keep the meat moist during cooking.

                Roast the Pork Loin: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Roast the pork for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Halfway through roasting, baste the pork with the pan juices for additional flavor and moisture.

                  Rest and Serve: Upon finishing, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy. Once rested, slice the pork loin and serve alongside the roasted apples and onions, drizzling with the pan juices for added flavor.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 6 servings

                      Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve each pork slice on a plate with a generous scoop of the apple and onion mixture, and drizzle with the rich pan juices. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs for a pop of color.