Citrus Thyme Roast Pork

Name: Citrus Thyme Roast Pork
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 lbs pork loin; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 2 oranges, zested and juiced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

A succulent roast pork recipe infused with vibrant citrus and fragrant thyme, perfect for family gatherings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:46:27.755Z

This Citrus Thyme Roast Pork is a delightful blend of flavors, combining the zesty notes of citrus with the aromatic touch of fresh thyme. It's an impressive dish, perfect for any celebration or a cozy family dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty citrus flavor that brightens up the savory pork
Herbaceous notes from fresh thyme enhance the dish
Perfectly tender and juicy, ideal for any occasion

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Citrus Thyme Roast Pork is a harmonious blend of savory and zesty flavors that will delight your taste buds. The juicy pork loin serves as a perfect canvas for the vibrant notes of orange and lemon, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. The addition of fresh thyme adds an aromatic quality that elevates the overall profile of the dish, making it a standout centerpiece for any meal.

This recipe allows the natural flavors of the pork to shine while introducing a delightful citrus twist. The balance of sweetness from the honey glaze complements the savory elements, creating a dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. The combination of citrus and herbs is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making your roast pork an enticing option for gatherings.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your Citrus Thyme Roast Pork turns out perfectly tender and juicy, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer. This tool will help you monitor the internal temperature, ensuring that the pork reaches the ideal doneness of 145°F (63°C). By doing so, you avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry result. Remember to let the meat rest after roasting; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

When preparing the rub, feel free to adjust the amount of citrus zest and thyme to suit your personal taste. Adding more zest will enhance the citrus profile, while additional thyme will amplify the herbaceous notes. Experimenting with these elements can help you create a version of this dish that perfectly aligns with your flavor preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ingredients

For the Pork

4 lbs pork loin
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
2 oranges, zested and juiced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze

1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, thyme, orange zest, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork loin.

Roast the Pork

Place the pork in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes.

Prepare the Glaze

While the pork is roasting, combine honey, soy sauce, and thyme in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.

Glaze and Finish Cooking

After 60 minutes, brush the glaze over the pork and return it to the oven. Roast for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze drizzled on top.

Enjoy your delicious Citrus Thyme Roast Pork!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Citrus Thyme Roast Pork, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the pork moist, consider adding a splash of broth or juice before sealing the container. This will help retain the flavors and prevent drying out during storage.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating can be done in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 325°F (163°C) and cover the pork with foil to retain moisture. Heat until warmed through. In the microwave, use short intervals on medium power to gently reheat the slices without losing tenderness.

Why Citrus and Thyme Work So Well Together

Citrus and thyme are a classic pairing that brings out the best in each other. The brightness of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons cuts through the richness of pork, creating a balanced flavor profile. This combination not only elevates the taste but also enhances the overall dining experience, making each bite enjoyable.

Thyme, with its earthy and slightly minty flavor, adds depth to the dish. The herb's aromatic qualities complement the sweetness of the citrus, creating a well-rounded flavor harmony. Together, they transform a simple roast into a gourmet meal, showcasing how a few key ingredients can make a significant impact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another cut of pork?

Yes, you can use pork shoulder or tenderloin, but cooking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the pork overnight for enhanced flavor.

→ What side dishes pair well with this roast?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely.