Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin Roast

**Ingredients:**

– 1 (3-4 lb) pork loin roast
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

*For the Pineapple Glaze:*
– 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

*For the Pineapple Topping:*
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pork Loin:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Season the pork loin generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
– In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
– Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
– Remove from heat and set aside.

2. **Make the Pineapple Glaze:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
– Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
– Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
– Remove from heat.

3. **Roast the Pork Loin:**
– Pour half of the pineapple glaze over the seared pork loin, brushing to ensure it’s evenly coated.
– Place the pork loin in the preheated oven and roast for 45-60 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 15 minutes.
– The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. **Add the Pineapple Topping:**
– During the last 10 minutes of roasting, scatter the fresh pineapple chunks over the pork loin.
– Continue roasting until the pineapple is slightly caramelized and the pork is fully cooked.

5. **Rest and Serve:**
– Remove the pork loin from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
– Garnish with chopped parsley.
– Serve slices of the pork loin topped with the caramelized pineapple and extra glaze from the pan.

This Pineapple Glazed Pork Loin Roast is a delightful main course that pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad. Enjoy the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors!