Recipe: Sheet pan honey garlic pork loin and vegetables

As a busy mom and a registered dietitian, I’m always looking for nutritious meals that are not only easy to prepare but also require minimal cleanup. That’s why sheet pan meals have become a staple in my household. There’s something so satisfying about tossing everything onto one pan, popping it in the oven and ending up with a balanced meal — without a sink full of dishes.

One of my go-to favorites is Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Pork Loin & Vegetables. This dish is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies and a deliciously sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that brings it all together.

Health benefits

Did you know that vegetable consumption among Americans remains notably low, with only 10% meeting the recommended intake, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention? Integrating vegetables into familiar dishes, such as pork-based meals, can effectively boost vegetable intake. Pork’s versatility and flavor make it an excellent carrier for vegetables, encouraging increased consumption among those who might otherwise neglect their daily servings. For instance, incorporating fiber-rich vegetables into pork stir-fries, roasts or sheet pan dinners can seamlessly enhance the nutritional profile of meals.

Tips for customizing this recipe

• Make it low-carb: Swap honey for a sugar-free alternative and serve with cauliflower rice.
• Add more veggies: Try bell peppers, zucchini or sweet potatoes for variety.
• Increase protein: Add a handful of toasted peanuts, almonds or cashews for extra protein and crunch.
• Adjust the heat: Love spice? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra hot sauce to the marinade.

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful and nutritious meal that requires minimal cleanup, this Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Pork Loin & Vegetables is the perfect choice. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep approved and packed with protein and veggies.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb. pork loin cut into small strips
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• ½ cup baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Honey Garlic Sauce:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a sheet pan with cooking spray or line it with foil and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, garlic, hot sauce, water, salt and pepper. Set aside. Arrange the pork loin and vegetables onto the prepared sheet pan. Pour the sauce over everything and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the pork reaches a minimum internal temperature of 145 degrees. Serve alone or with rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy.

Andrea Mathis is a registered dietitian and owner of Beautiful Eats & Things. For more great recipes, visit beautifuleatsandthings.com. This story originally appeared in Alabama Living magazine and on Alabama News Center.