If you're watching your calorie intake, lean pork loin is a great choice. One ounce of raw, boneless pork loin roast (lean only, yield after cooking and bone removed) contains just 33 calories. Here's what you need to know about this tasty and healthy cut of meat.

In addition to being low calorie, pork loin is also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of protein, vitamin B6, thiamin, and phosphorus. It also contains smaller amounts of essential vitamins and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and potassium.

Not only is pork loin healthy, it's also versatile and easy to prepare. Keep reading to learn about the best ways to cook pork loin, as well as its nutritional content, health benefits, and more.

Lean pork loin: what is it?

Pork loin is a cut of meat that comes from the back of the pig. It's known for its low fat content and tender texture. In general, pork loin is considered one of the leanest cuts of pork. A 3-ounce serving of cooked pork loin contains around 147 calories and just 6 grams of fat. In contrast, a 3-ounce serving of cooked pork shoulder contains around 250 calories and 16 grams of fat. When purchasing pork loin, look for cuts that are pinkish-red in color and have a visible layer of fat around the edges. This will help ensure the meat stays moist and tender during cooking.

A lean pork loin roast: definition

A pork loin roast is a larger cut of pork loin that's often used for roasting. It can be bone-in or boneless, and is typically sold with a layer of fat still attached. To create a lean pork loin roast, the fat is typically trimmed off until only a thin layer remains. The roast is then cooked in the oven or on a grill until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Once cooked, the roast should be allowed to rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing and serving.

How many calories does a 1 oz pork loin contain?

One ounce of raw, boneless pork loin roast (lean only, yield after cooking and bone removed) contains just 33 calories. If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, pork loin is a great choice. It's low in calories but high in protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.

Nutrients in lean pork loin roast

In addition to its low calorie content, pork loin is also packed with nutrients. Here's a closer look at the nutritional content of one 3-ounce serving of cooked pork loin: - calories: 147 - Protein: 24 grams - Fat: 6 grams - Carbohydrates: 0 grams - Cholesterol: 73 milligrams - Sodium: 55 milligrams

Protein content in lean pork loin

Pork loin is an excellent source of protein, with one 3-ounce serving containing around 24 grams of this essential nutrient. Protein is important for a variety of bodily functions, including building and repairing muscles and tissues. It's also essential for the production of enzymes, hormones, and other important molecules.

Fat content in lean pork loin

While pork loin is relatively low in fat compared to other cuts of pork, it still contains some fat. One 3-ounce serving of cooked pork loin contains around 6 grams of fat, including both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. However, the fats found in pork loin are considered healthier than those found in other types of meat, such as beef. This is because pork loin contains more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

How to cook a lean pork loin roast?

There are many different ways to cook a lean pork loin roast, depending on your personal preferences and available equipment. Here are a few popular methods: - Oven roasting: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Roast the pork loin for about 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. - Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Place the pork loin on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Lean pork loin vs other types of pork

Compared to other cuts of pork, such as pork shoulder, pork loin is much leaner and lower in calories. Additionally, pork loin contains more protein and less fat than other cuts. However, it's important to note that pork loin can still contain a significant amount of cholesterol, which can be problematic for individuals with high blood cholesterol levels. It's also important to control portion sizes when consuming pork loin to avoid consuming too many calories or excessive amounts of sodium.

Health benefits of lean pork loin

In addition to being a tasty and versatile meat, pork loin offers a number of health benefits. Here are a few of the potential health benefits of including pork loin in your diet: - Lean protein: Pork loin is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues. - Vitamins and minerals: Pork loin is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, thiamin, and phosphorus.

Side dishes to serve with lean pork loin

When preparing a meal with pork loin, there are a wide variety of side dishes that pair perfectly with this lean and flavorful meat. Here are a few suggestions: - Roasted vegetables: Try roasting carrots, potatoes, and other vegetables alongside your pork loin for a flavorful and nutritious side dish. - Grilled fruit: Grilled pineapple, peaches, and other fruits make a sweet and tangy contrast to savory pork loin.