Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious way to add some variety to your meals? Look no further than pork! This lean protein is packed with nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. And the best part? Pork can be prepared in countless ways, from grilled tenderloins to hearty stews.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious pork recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods like slow cooker honey mustard pork chops, to international-inspired dishes like pork and vegetable stir-fry with brown rice, there’s something for everyone. And don’t worry – we’ve made sure each recipe is not only tasty, but also healthy and easy to make.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking! In the next section, we’ll dive into our first 5 recipes, starting with a show-stopping Garlic Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin. Stay tuned!
Garlic Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin
This recipe yields a flavorful and tender pork tenderloin with a delicious garlic herb crust, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork tenderloin on a plate or cutting board. Rub the garlic herb mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the tenderloin on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Pork Chops
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Pork Chops: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Get ready to savor the flavors of a sweet and savory slow-cooked pork chop dish, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe combines the richness of honey with the tanginess of mustard to create a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of the chicken broth.
2. Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Place the seared pork chops into the slow cooker. Pour the honey-mustard mixture over the top of each chop.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Baked Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional pork chops, featuring the natural sweetness of apples and onions. The result is a flavorful and moist dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with the mixture.
4. Place the sliced apples and onions in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
5. Place the pork chops on top of the apple and onion mixture.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar over the pork chops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of pork with a colorful mix of vegetables, served over fluffy brown rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked pork to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Serve over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Pork and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender pork, quinoa, and roasted vegetables for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and set aside.
6. Stuff each pepper with the pork-quinoa mixture, topping with cheese if desired.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil; bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pork Medallions with Mushroom Gravy
Pork Medallions with Mushroom Gravy: A rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork medallions (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork medallions with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender and fragrant.
4. Remove mushrooms from skillet and set aside.
5. Add flour to the same skillet and whisk together with butter to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer.
7. Place pork medallions in the gravy and cook for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lean Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a perfect blend of tender pork and sweet potatoes, cooked to perfection with minimal fat. It’s an ideal weeknight meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Return the cooked pork to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potatoes and onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Pork and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Ginger Sauce
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines tender pork, crisp broccoli, and a savory ginger sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork chops, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, garlic, and ginger. Cook until broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour into skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pork back into skillet and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Pork Kebabs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this tropical-inspired kebab recipe, perfect for a quick and easy summer dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite barbecue sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread pork, bell peppers, pineapple, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, with your favorite barbecue sauce on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork Loin with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe yields a tender pork loin paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze all over the pork loin.
4. Roast the pork loin in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. While the pork is cooking, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Let the pork loin rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy Pork and Cabbage Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup made with tender pork, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork in chicken broth over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender and the cabbage is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pork and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms with the richness of pork and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by gently scraping out the gills with a spoon.
3. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pork and spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle a pinch on top of each mushroom.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Tenderloin with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your pork tenderloin game with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields a juicy and flavorful pork dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the pork is cooking, whisk together balsamic glaze and brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove the pork from the oven and brush the glaze all over it.
7. Return the pork to the oven and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the tender taste of pork, the sweetness of zucchini, and the creaminess of pesto. This recipe is a perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 8 oz pasta noodles (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the pasta noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In the same skillet, add sliced zucchinis and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Add pesto and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked noodles with zucchini mixture; top with roasted pork and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Low-Sodium Pork and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe is a twist on the classic, using lean pork and reduced-sodium ingredients to keep the flavor without sacrificing nutrition. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, low-sodium
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, low-sodium
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Brown the pork in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans; stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines succulent pork with roasted cauliflower “rice” for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and chicken broth. Pour the mixture into the pork pan and stir to coat.
5. Serve cooked pork on top of roasted cauliflower “rice” with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pork Chops with Lemon and Rosemary
Elevate your dinner game with this refreshing twist on classic pork chops. The bright citrus flavor of lemon and the earthy aroma of rosemary create a harmonious balance that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the lemon-olive oil mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the top of each chop.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Kale Salad with Avocado Dressing
This refreshing salad combines tender pork, crispy kale, and creamy avocado dressing for a healthy and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pork shoulder, diced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
2. Add the diced pork, lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl with the kale.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado and a squeeze of lime juice. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pork and Butternut Squash Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork and butternut squash with a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add squash, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned pork to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Healthy Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of pork and eggplant with a hint of Asian-inspired spices, making for a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavor with these 20 delicious and nutritious pork recipes! From classic grilled tenderloin to hearty stews, there’s something for every taste bud. Try slow-cooked honey mustard pork chops or baked pork chops with apples and onions. For a quick weeknight meal, whip up a pork and vegetable stir-fry or healthy pork and quinoa stuffed peppers. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory or bold and spicy, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
