Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's quick and easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for pork loin and pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet satisfying dish—a true champion among easy recipes and quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sear the Pork: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear on all sides until browned. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your homemade cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and tender.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pork and sauce. Toss to combine, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the pork. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the pork browns properly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can always add more herbs, spices, or salt and pepper to your liking.
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs and good quality Parmesan cheese make a big difference.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make this a more complete meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Combine all the ingredients (except the pasta) in a large pot and simmer until the pork is cooked through. Add the cooked pasta at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This pork loin and pasta recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with minimal effort. It’s a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. Enjoy!