Savory Rosemary Sage Pork Loin
This Savory Rosemary Sage Pork Loin is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings the rich flavors of Tuscany right to your dining table. Infused with the warmth of garlic, the earthiness of fresh rosemary and sage, and wrapped in succulent pancetta, this pork loin is anything but ordinary. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it pairs wonderfully with braised white beans and roasted potatoes. Don't forget to uncork a bottle of Chianti to complement the meal perfectly. Experience a taste of Italy that you won't forget!
4
Servings
450
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Garlic cloves
4 (peeled and coarsely chopped)
Fresh rosemary needles
2 tablespoons (coarsely chopped)
Fresh sage leaves
8 leaves (coarsely chopped)
Coarse sea salt
2 teaspoons (none)
Fresh ground black pepper
2 teaspoons (none)
Extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Boneless pork loin roast
2 lbs (well trimmed)
Pancetta
4 slices (none)
Instructions
1
In a mortar, pound together the garlic, rosemary, sage, coarse sea salt, and black pepper until a paste forms. Alternatively, you can use a mini food processor to puree the ingredients.
2
Mix in the extra virgin olive oil until well combined.
3
Place the trimmed pork loin in a baking dish and generously spread the herb mixture all over the pork, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
6
Once preheated, place the pork loin fat side up on a rack set in a heavy roasting pan.
7
Lay the pancetta slices crosswise over the pork loin, this will keep the meat moist and add a delicious flavor.
8
Roast the pork in the preheated oven until a thermometer inserted into the center reads 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) for medium doneness, around 1 hour.
9
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
10
Discard the pancetta strips, then cut the pork into 1/3-inch thick slices.
11
Arrange the pork slices on a beautiful platter, garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired, and serve hot alongside your favorite sides.
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
2.5g
Carbs
55g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Rosemary Sage Pork Loin?
It is a Tuscan-style dish where a boneless pork loin is coated in a fresh herb paste, wrapped in pancetta, and roasted to perfection.
What are the primary herbs used in this recipe?
The primary herbs are fresh rosemary needles and fresh sage leaves.
How long should the pork marinate in the herb rub?
The pork should be refrigerated with the herb rub for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
What is the purpose of the pancetta in this recipe?
Laying pancetta over the pork loin helps keep the meat moist during roasting and adds a delicious savory flavor.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
What is the target internal temperature for the pork?
The pork should reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) for medium doneness.
How long does it take to roast the pork loin?
It typically takes about 1 hour for a 2 lb roast in a 350 degree F oven.
Should I use a mortar and pestle for the herb paste?
You can use a mortar and pestle to pound the ingredients, or a mini food processor to puree them into a paste.
Why should the pork rest after roasting?
Resting the pork for at least 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and moist when sliced.
What side dishes pair well with this pork loin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with braised white beans and roasted potatoes.
What type of wine is recommended for this meal?
A bottle of Chianti is recommended to complement the Italian-inspired flavors.
How thick should the pork be sliced?
The pork should be cut into slices approximately 1/3-inch thick.
Do I eat the pancetta strips after roasting?
The recipe instructions suggest discarding the pancetta strips before slicing the pork.
How should I position the pork in the roasting pan?
Place the pork loin fat side up on a rack set in a heavy roasting pan.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, with only 2.5g of carbohydrates and 55g of protein per serving, it is very low in carbs.
What ingredients are in the herb paste?
The paste consists of garlic, rosemary, sage, sea salt, black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities if fresh are unavailable.
What size pork loin is needed?
The recipe calls for a 2 lb boneless pork loin roast, well trimmed.
How many garlic cloves are used?
The recipe uses 4 garlic cloves, peeled and coarsely chopped.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Coarse sea salt is recommended for the herb paste.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Should the pork be covered while in the refrigerator?
Yes, cover the dish with plastic wrap while it refrigerates for at least 2 hours.
Can I use a bone-in pork loin for this recipe?
The recipe specifies a boneless pork loin; using bone-in will significantly alter the cooking time.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 22.5g of fat per serving.
What is the preparation for the sage leaves?
The 8 fresh sage leaves should be coarsely chopped before being added to the paste.
Is the pancetta sliced?
Yes, the recipe requires 4 slices of pancetta to be laid crosswise over the roast.
Should I use a roasting rack?
Yes, placing the pork on a rack in the pan ensures even heat distribution.
What can I use as a garnish?
Fresh rosemary sprigs are suggested for a beautiful presentation on the platter.