If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, look no further than cranberry apple pork loin. At 241 calories per serving (201 g), it's a healthy and satisfying option to add to your dinner rotation.
Made with tender pork and a tangy cranberry apple glaze, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. In addition to being a great source of protein, pork loin is also low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals. Plus, the addition of cranberries and apples adds a boost of antioxidants and fiber to your meal.
Whether you're cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining guests for a special occasion, cranberry apple pork loin is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that is sure to impress.
Calories in Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
A serving of cranberry apple pork loin (201 g) contains 241 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a main dish, especially when paired with healthy side dishes like roasted vegetables or steamed brown rice. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can adjust the serving size to meet your needs. To decrease the calories in the dish, you can also reduce the amount of glaze or use a lower-calorie sweetener substitute.
Ingredients in Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
To make cranberry apple pork loin, you will need the following ingredients: - Pork loin: 1 (2-3 pound) boneless pork loin roast - Cranberry apple glaze: 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup apple juice, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, salt and pepper to taste
Nutrients in Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
Cranberry apple pork loin is a great source of nutrients, including: - Protein: 26 grams per serving - Vitamin B6: 35% of the daily value per serving
Preparation of Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
To prepare cranberry apple pork loin, follow these simple steps: 1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. 2. In a bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, apple juice, brown sugar, dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
Serving size of Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
A serving size of cranberry apple pork loin is 201 g, which is equivalent to approximately 3-4 thick slices of the roast. However, you can adjust the serving size to meet your individual needs and preferences. For a complete meal, pair your cranberry apple pork loin with healthy side dishes like roasted vegetables, steamed brown rice, or a side salad.
Health benefits of Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
In addition to being a delicious and satisfying meal, cranberry apple pork loin offers numerous health benefits. Some of the benefits of this dish include: - High protein content: Pork loin is an excellent source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissue in the body. - Antioxidant and fiber rich: Cranberries and apples are high in antioxidants and fiber, which can help protect your body from disease and improve digestive health.
Side dish suggestions with Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
For a complete and balanced meal, consider pairing your cranberry apple pork loin with the following healthy side dishes: - Roasted vegetables: Try roasting a variety of colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes for a nutrient-packed side dish. - Steamed brown rice: Brown rice is a good source of fiber and essential vitamins, and is a great option to help you feel full and satisfied.
To store leftover cranberry apple pork loin, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat the pork loin, place it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also chop up the leftover pork and use it in salads or sandwiches for a quick and easy meal.
Variations of Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
If you want to switch up the flavors in your cranberry apple pork loin, here are a few variations to try: - Swap the pork loin for chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option. - Add a few cloves of minced garlic and some fresh rosemary to the glaze for an extra boost of flavor.
Tips for cooking Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
To ensure your cranberry apple pork loin turns out perfectly every time, keep these cooking tips in mind: - Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork to ensure it reaches at least 145 degrees F. - Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Apple Pork Loin
1. What are the ingredients in Cranberry Apple Pork Loin?
The main ingredients in Cranberry Apple Pork Loin are pork loin, dried cranberries, apple juice, brown sugar, and spices. Other ingredients may include garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
2. How is Cranberry Apple Pork Loin cooked?
Typically, Cranberry Apple Pork Loin is roasted in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. It can also be cooked in a slow cooker or on a grill.
3. Is Cranberry Apple Pork Loin healthy?
Cranberry Apple Pork Loin can be a healthy dish if prepared with lean pork loin and minimal added sugar. It is a good source of protein and can be a good source of vitamins and minerals if served with vegetables.
4. How is Cranberry Apple Pork Loin served?
Cranberry Apple Pork Loin is often served sliced with a side of vegetables and a starch such as roasted potatoes or rice. It can also be shredded and used as a filling for sandwiches, tacos, or wraps.
5. Can Cranberry Apple Pork Loin be cooked ahead of time?
Yes, Cranberry Apple Pork Loin can be cooked ahead of time and reheated before serving. It can also be frozen for later use.