Zesty Marinated Pork Loin

Ingredients:

1 pork loin, approximately 2 pounds
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

Preparing the Marinade:

Score the Pork Loin: Start by scoring the pork loin in a crisscross pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat more effectively.
Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk until well combined.

Marinating the Pork:

Place Pork in a Bag: Place the scored pork loin in a large resealable plastic bag.
Pour in the Marinade: Pour the marinade over the pork loin, ensuring it is well covered.
Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the pork. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Cooking the Pork:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sear the Pork: Remove the pork loin from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the pork loin on all sides until it forms a golden-brown crust, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the seared pork loin to a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the top.
Roast in Oven: Roast the pork loin in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Resting and Serving:

Rest the Pork: Remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender roast.
Slice and Serve: Slice the pork loin into 1/2-inch thick pieces and arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with the pan juices for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Pork Loin:

Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the pork loin overnight. The longer the meat sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it becomes.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, fresh orange juice, and high-quality honey make a noticeable difference in the marinade.
Don’t Overcook: Pork loin can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the perfect internal temperature of 145°F.

Variations:

Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier kick.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an herbaceous flavor.
Citrus Mix: Combine different citrus juices, such as lime and lemon, along with the orange juice for a more complex citrus flavor.

Pairing Suggestions:

Vegetable Medley: Serve with roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes.
Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa can help soak up the delicious juices from the pork.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich pork loin.

This zesty marinated pork loin is a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Its vibrant flavors and tender texture make it a standout dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and always delivers delicious results. So, gather your ingredients and give this marinated pork loin a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Feel free to share this recipe with your friends and family. They’ll appreciate the delicious new dish you’ve brought to the table. Happy cooking!