Bring the warmth of Sicily to your holiday table with this arrosto di maiale al forno, a traditional Italian pork dish perfect for festive gatherings. Bursting with the flavors of rosemary, garlic and rosemary, and a citrus herb blend, this Italian roast pork recipe is ideal for Italian Christmas dinner or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3–4 lb pork loin
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs mix (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon (citrus herb)
- 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp Italian spices (optional, such as fennel seeds or crushed black pepper)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork loin with herbs dry with paper towels.
- In a small sized bowl, combine garlic, fresh herbs mix, citrus zest, sea salt, and Italian spices. Add extra virgin olive oil and mix to form a fragrant paste.
- Rub the garlic and herb mixture evenly over the pork, making sure to cover all sides. For extra flavor, let the pork marinate for 1–2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Place the pork in a roasting pan and cover loosely with foil. Roast for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue roasting for another 30–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and allow the pork to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices of the dish to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Serve warm as the centerpiece of your festive Italian recipes. Pair with roasted vegetables, creamy polenta, or a fresh green salad for a complete Italian holiday roast experience.
This authentic Italian recipe showcases the harmony of herbs, rosemary, citrus herb, and garlic and rosemary, making it a standout Italian Sunday roast or holiday pork roast recipe. Bring the flavors of Sicily into your home and enjoy the warmth of Italian holiday cooking.
