Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly delicious? Then look no further! This Pork Loin with Peaches recipe is a surprisingly simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The sweet peaches perfectly complement the savory pork, creating a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, promising a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant-quality effort.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork loin, trimmed of excess fat
- 4 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the pork cooks evenly and to the perfect temperature.
Prepare the Pork:
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the pork.
Sear and Bake:
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step creates a delicious crust.
- Arrange the peach slices around the pork loin in the skillet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. This creates a flavorful sauce that will baste the pork as it cooks.
- Pour the sauce over the pork and peaches.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork loin.
- Slice the pork loin and serve immediately with the peach sauce and pan juices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork loin in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the pork in a regular skillet, then transfer it to a roasting pan to bake.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet; this will prevent the pork from browning properly.
- Adjust the amount of honey to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey to 2 tablespoons.
Variations:
- Add a handful of fresh rosemary or sage to the skillet for an extra layer of herby flavor.
- Substitute nectarines or apricots for the peaches.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the dish for added crunch.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your pork loin and the number of servings. However, a general estimate suggests this recipe provides a good source of protein and some fiber from the peaches. It is a relatively healthy meal option, especially when compared to many other quick dinner ideas. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, you can use an online nutrition calculator.
This Pork Loin with Peaches recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make, even on busy weeknights. Enjoy!