Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin is like a tropical vacation for your taste buds! Imagine juicy pork loin, brushed with a delightful glaze made from sweet pineapple juice and a hint of soy sauce. It all comes together with a splash of brown sugar and a pinch of ginger for extra zing. After about an hour in the oven, you're left with tender, flavorful meat that's perfect next to green beans or fluffy potatoes. Plus, it's a low-calorie treat that packs a protein punch! Curious about how to whip up this delicious dish? You'll be surprised by how easy it is!
Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin combines sweet pineapple with savory pork, creating a deliciously balanced dish perfect for any occasion.
The glaze is made by boiling reserved pineapple juice with brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger for added flavor depth.
Cooking the pork loin at 350°F for about 1 hour and 15 minutes ensures a tender and juicy result.
Serve the glazed pork with fresh green beans, boiled red-skinned potatoes, or rice to complement the dish.
Nutritionally, each serving provides approximately 396 calories, 35 grams of protein, and a low-fat content, making it a healthy option.
Recipe Overview
The Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin is a culinary delight that marries the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the rich, savory notes of pork. This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to impress friends or enjoy a special meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With minimal preparation time, it's perfect for both festive occasions and easy weeknight dinners.
To achieve that mouthwatering glaze, you'll boil reserved pineapple juice with a few other ingredients until it thickens, enhancing the sweet and savory flavors. The secret to a juicy, tender pork loin lies in cooking it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This guarantees your meat comes out moist and flavorful, leaving everyone at the table asking for seconds.
When it comes to sides, fresh green beans and boiled red-skinned potatoes are the ideal companions. They not only complement the dish but also add a lovely crunch and creaminess, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Key Ingredients
Key to achieving the delightful flavor of Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin are the carefully selected ingredients that come together to create a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
The star of this dish is, of course, the pork loin. Known for its tenderness and low fat content, it's a healthy choice that pairs perfectly with the glaze. Speaking of glaze, let's talk details!
You'll need brown sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness, and soy sauce, giving it that savory depth we all love. Don't forget ginger! Whether you choose ground ginger or go for fresh ginger for a bolder flavor, it adds a hint of spice that enhances the dish.
Next up, pineapple juice is essential. It not only brings that tropical flair but also helps marinate the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
If you want your glaze to stick like glue, consider using cornstarch to thicken it. This will help create a delicious coating that clings to those tender cuts of pork, making each bite a delightful experience.
With these key ingredients, you're well on your way to creating a meal that's sure to impress!
Cooking Steps
Achieving culinary excellence with Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin begins with a well-structured cooking process. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is essential for even baking, guaranteeing that your pork loin comes out just right.
While the oven warms up, prepare your glaze by boiling reserved pineapple juice with other ingredients until it thickens. This amplifies the flavors and makes it super delicious!
Now, it's time to cook the pork loin. Brush it generously with the glaze before placing it in the oven. Don't forget to keep brushing it with glaze while it bakes! This keeps the meat moist and flavorful, making your taste buds do a happy dance.
Bake the pork uncovered, turning it once and glazing multiple times, until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This confirms it's safe to eat and oh-so-tender!
Once baked, let the pork rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, creating a tender and flavorful dish. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Your Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin is now ready to impress everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy!
Serving Recommendations
After perfectly baking the Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin, attention turns to how best to present and serve this delightful dish.
First things first, let's make it a feast for the eyes! Consider serving the glazed pork loin alongside fresh green beans and boiled red-skinned potatoes. The vibrant colors not only make the plate pop but also provide a balanced meal.
For those who love a bit of extra flavor, pairing the dish with rice is a fantastic idea. The rice soaks up that delicious pineapple sauce, transforming each bite into a tropical adventure!
To enhance the presentation, garnish the pork with additional pineapple chunks and sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top.
And who can resist a side salad? A revitalizing spinach berry salad offers a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the pork loin, making every bite an experience.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted bread or fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Exploring the nutritional understandings of Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin reveals a dish that balances flavor with health benefits. This delightful meal features pork tenderloin, a lean cut that packs about 35 grams of protein per serving. That's like a mini power-up for your muscles!
While the dish has a sweet side from pineapple, contributing roughly 34 grams of sugar, it brings tons of tropical vibes without the guilt.
With around 396 calories per serving, it's a low-calorie option for those who want to indulge without going overboard. The glaze, made with light brown sugar, improves flavor while keeping fat content in check—about 12 grams, with only 5 grams of that being saturated fat. Talk about a win-win!
Let's not forget the nutrients! Each serving provides a hearty boost of potassium, at 753 mg, and a healthy dose of Vitamin C, around 10.9 mg. These nutrients support your body's functions and keep you feeling great.
Conclusion
In summary, pineapple glazed pork loin is a delightful fusion of tropical sweetness and savory goodness. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a splash of fun to any meal. With its vibrant flavors and juicy texture, it's sure to impress family and friends alike. So, why not give it a try? Immerse yourself in this culinary adventure and enjoy the delicious results that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
