Citrus Thyme Roast Pork

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

Enjoy a succulent roast pork infused with the bright flavors of citrus and fragrant thyme, perfect for any occasion.

Tom

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-12-29T16:10:28.016Z

This Citrus Thyme Roast Pork is a delightful combination of savory and sweet, making it a standout dish for gatherings or family dinners. The citrus zest brightens the rich flavors of the pork, while thyme adds an aromatic touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Zesty citrus flavor that brightens the dish
  • Tender, juicy pork that melts in your mouth
  • A stunning centerpiece for your dining table

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Citrus Thyme Roast Pork brings together an exquisite combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The zesty notes from the orange and lemon zest infuse the pork with a refreshing brightness, while the earthy aroma of thyme adds depth to the dish. This harmonious blend ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a delightful experience for anyone at the table.

Beyond its vibrant taste, the marinade enhances the natural juiciness of the pork. The honey lends a subtle sweetness that balances the tanginess of the citrus and the umami from the soy sauce. This perfect balance turns a simple pork loin into a standout meal that is both satisfying and memorable.

A Culinary Showstopper

Not only does Citrus Thyme Roast Pork deliver on flavor, but it also serves as an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Its golden-brown exterior and beautifully caramelized glaze will have your guests reaching for their cameras before they even take a bite. This recipe is ideal for festive occasions, family dinners, or even a cozy Sunday meal with loved ones.

Serving this roast can be a highlight of your dining experience. Pair it with seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad to create a well-rounded meal. The visual appeal combined with delicious flavors ensures that it will be a topic of conversation long after the last bite has been enjoyed.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your roast, consider marinating the pork for a longer period, ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender roast. If you're short on time, a minimum of one hour will still yield a delicious outcome.

When roasting, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Cooking the pork to 145°F ensures that it remains juicy and tender, avoiding the risk of overcooking. Letting the roast rest for 10 minutes after cooking is crucial; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Pork

  • 2 lbs pork loin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Marinade

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl for a flavorful marinade.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.

Season the Pork

Rub the pork loin with olive oil, salt, black pepper, thyme, citrus zest, and garlic. Place it in a resealable bag or a dish.

Marinate

Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it's well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Roast the Pork

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Rest and Serve

Allow the pork to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!

Serve the pork with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Pairing Suggestions

Citrus Thyme Roast Pork pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic approach, consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes contrasts nicely with the juicy pork, while roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts add a touch of sweetness and color to your plate.

For a lighter option, a refreshing citrus salad made with mixed greens, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette complements the roast perfectly. The bright flavors of the salad enhance the citrus notes in the pork, creating a cohesive dining experience that your guests will love.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, Citrus Thyme Roast Pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the oven to prevent it from drying out. Adding a splash of broth or juice while reheating can help maintain its moisture.

Leftover pork can also be repurposed into delicious dishes like sandwiches, tacos, or stir-fries. Shred the meat and toss it with some fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. This versatility makes it a great option for meal prep or using up leftovers creatively.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, you can use pork shoulder or tenderloin, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the pork a day ahead and roast it when ready.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad complement this roast beautifully.

Citrus Thyme Roast Pork

Enjoy a succulent roast pork infused with the bright flavors of citrus and fragrant thyme, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Tom

Recipe Type: Warm Bowl Creations

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pork

  1. 2 lbs pork loin
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 tablespoon salt
  4. 1 teaspoon black pepper
  5. 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  6. Zest and juice of 1 orange
  7. Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  8. 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Marinade

  1. 1/4 cup honey
  2. 1/4 cup soy sauce
  3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.

Step 02

Rub the pork loin with olive oil, salt, black pepper, thyme, citrus zest, and garlic. Place it in a resealable bag or a dish.

Step 03

Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it's well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Step 04

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 05

Allow the pork to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 40g