Tender Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Pork Loin
Discover the simplicity of preparing a succulent pork loin in your slow cooker with this delightful recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, you will transform a lean cut of pork into a tender, flavor-packed meal. The combination of fresh lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and garlic melds beautifully as it cooks low and slow, ensuring juicy results every time. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can also be adapted for oven cooking, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables or grains for a complete dinner that'll impress your family and friends.
6-8
Servings
225
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin
2-3 lbs (Trimmed of excess fat)
Lemon juice
3 tablespoons (Freshly squeezed)
Garlic cloves
3 (Minced)
Crushed rosemary
1 teaspoon (Dried)
Parsley flakes
1 teaspoon (Dried)
Thyme
1/2 teaspoon (Dried)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (Kosher or sea)
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the trimmed pork loin in the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker.
2
In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, crushed rosemary, parsley flakes, thyme, pepper, and salt to create an herbaceous marinade.
3
Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring all sides are coated evenly. You can turn the meat to achieve full coverage.
4
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
5
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. Serve it warm with your choice of sides.
Nutrition Information
1.25g
Fat
0.75g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2-3 lbs of boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat.
How long does it take to cook on the high setting?
When set to high, the pork loin should cook for 4-6 hours until tender.
How long should I cook the pork on the low setting?
On the low setting, the pork loin requires 6-8 hours of cooking time.
What herbs are included in the marinade?
The marinade features crushed rosemary, parsley flakes, and thyme.
Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin?
Yes, the recipe allows for either boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?
Yes, with only 0.75g of carbohydrates per serving, it is very low in carbs.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes enough for 6-8 servings.
Do I need to sear the meat before putting it in the slow cooker?
No, the instructions specify placing the trimmed pork loin directly into the bottom of the crockpot.
What kind of lemon juice is recommended?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
How much garlic is used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 3 minced garlic cloves.
Can I cook this recipe in the oven?
Yes, the description mentions that this dish can be adapted for oven cooking.
Is the pork supposed to be sliced or shredded?
The pork will be tender enough to be either sliced or easily shredded with a fork.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 1.25g of fat per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides about 15g of protein.
What type of salt should I use?
The recipe suggests using either kosher or sea salt.
Should I let the meat rest after cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding to keep it juicy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the listed ingredients (pork, citrus, and herbs), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How do I ensure the marinade covers the meat?
Pour the marinade over the pork and turn the meat to ensure all sides are coated evenly.
Can this be used for meal prep?
Yes, it is tagged as a great option for meal prep.
What sides go well with herb-infused pork?
It is recommended to serve this with your favorite vegetables or grains.
How much rosemary is required?
You will need 1 teaspoon of dried crushed rosemary.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, the recipe does not contain any added sugar.
How much thyme is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Is this considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a comfort food recipe.
Do I need to add water or broth to the crockpot?
No, the lemon juice and the moisture from the pork create the necessary liquid for slow cooking.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic cloves should be minced before being added to the marinade.
How much pepper is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
While the recipe specifies dried, you can use fresh herbs; generally, use three times the amount of fresh as you would dried.
What is the primary flavor profile of this pork loin?
The flavor profile is herb-infused with a bright citrus note from the lemon and garlic.