Citrus Thyme Roast Pork

Highlighted under: Seasonal Dish Recipes

A succulent roast pork dish infused with bright citrus flavors and aromatic thyme, perfect for any family gathering.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T15:34:28.769Z

This Citrus Thyme Roast Pork is a delightful blend of savory and sweet, making it an ideal centerpiece for any meal. The zesty flavors of citrus combined with the earthy notes of thyme create a mouthwatering experience for your taste buds.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Bright citrus notes that elevate the pork's natural flavors
  • Aromatic thyme that adds depth to every bite
  • Perfect for a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Citrus Thyme Roast Pork is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the best out of the pork loin. The bright citrus notes from the oranges and lemon cut through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced dish that pleases the palate. The acidity from the citrus also helps to tenderize the pork, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Aromatic thyme complements the citrus beautifully, adding an earthy depth that enhances the overall experience. Thyme has a robust flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the oranges and the tanginess of the lemon, creating a harmonious blend that will impress your guests.

This dish is not just about flavor; it also presents beautifully. The vibrant colors of the citrus garnishes and fresh thyme sprigs make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

Easy Preparation for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Citrus Thyme Roast Pork is its simplicity and ease of preparation. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the pork with flavor while you go about your day.

Whether you're hosting a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe fits the bill. It requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or spend quality time with your loved ones during the cooking process.

Moreover, the leftovers make for delicious sandwiches or salads, ensuring that you can enjoy this flavorful dish even after the main event.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Citrus Thyme Roast Pork experience, consider pairing it with a light, refreshing salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the citrus notes of the pork perfectly. The peppery arugula balances the sweetness of the meat, creating a well-rounded meal.

For sides, roasted vegetables tossed with olive oil and herbs make a great accompaniment. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes roasted to perfection add color and nutrition to your plate, making for a wholesome dining experience.

Lastly, a glass of white wine or a light-bodied red can enhance the flavors of the dish. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir would be excellent choices, offering crispness that pairs beautifully with the citrus and thyme.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 oranges, zested and juiced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pork

  • 1 (4-5 pound) pork loin
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
  • Orange slices for garnish

Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

Instructions

Marinate the Pork

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, lemon zest, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the pork loin in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roast the Pork

Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste occasionally with the marinade.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme and orange slices. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Citrus Thyme Roast Pork!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers from your Citrus Thyme Roast Pork, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to continue to meld, and you may find that the pork tastes even better the next day!

To reheat, simply place the pork in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. You can add a splash of orange juice or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat and affect its texture.

Customizing Your Roast

Feel free to customize the marinade according to your taste preferences. Adding a splash of soy sauce or honey can introduce a savory or sweet dimension that works well with the pork. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to create a unique flavor profile.

If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick. This adds a surprising twist to the dish without overpowering the citrus and thyme flavors.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other herbs instead of thyme?

Absolutely! Rosemary and sage are great alternatives that pair well with pork.

→ 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 in advance and roast it the next day.

→ What sides pair well with this roast?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments.

Citrus Thyme Roast Pork

A succulent roast pork dish infused with bright citrus flavors and aromatic thyme, perfect for any family gathering.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Seasonal Dish Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

For the Marinade

  1. 1/4 cup olive oil
  2. 2 oranges, zested and juiced
  3. 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  4. 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  5. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pork

  1. 1 (4-5 pound) pork loin
  2. Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
  3. Orange slices for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, lemon zest, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the pork loin in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 03

Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste occasionally with the marinade.

Step 04

Once cooked, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme and orange slices. Serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 39g