Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin for this recipe?

Not really. Pork tenderloin is thinner and cooks way faster, so it’ll dry out with this method. Stick with pork loin for juicy results. If you only have tenderloin, cut the cook time way down, about 20 to 25 minutes at most.

How do I know when pork loin is done without drying it out?

Use a meat thermometer. Take it out of the oven when the center hits 145°F (63°C), then let it rest for 10 minutes. The temp rises a bit while resting, and you’ll keep all the juices locked in.

Is this lime pork loin good for meal prep or freezing?

Yes! Slice it up and store in the fridge for 4–5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet with a splash of broth or lime juice to keep it moist.

Keto Zesty Lime Pork Loin Recipe You Should Have For Dinner

Keto Zesty Lime Pork Loin Recipe

Print Recipe

Juicy pork loin marinated in lime, garlic, and spices, then oven-roasted until tender. A bold, easy keto-friendly recipe perfect for weeknight meals or meal prep.

Author: Jane Summerfield
Prep Time: 10 minutes + 2 hours marinating
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus marinade time)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course, Dinner
Method: Oven roasted
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired, Keto, Low-Carb

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

2 to 2.5 lb pork loin
3 limes (zest and juice)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup olive oil
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Optional for garnish:

Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Avocado slices

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Instructions

Marinate Pork
- Dry pork loin with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, mix lime juice, zest, garlic, spices, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Coat pork in marinade, seal in a container or zip bag. Chill for at least 2 hours, overnight if possible.
Prep Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove pork from fridge and let sit at room temp for 30 mins.
Roast
- Place pork in a baking dish. Pour marinade on top.
- Roast uncovered for 45–60 mins, or until internal temp hits 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest 10 mins before slicing.
Serve
- Slice and serve with lime wedges, herbs, or avocado if using.

Notes

Pork loin, not tenderloin. They cook differently.
Use a meat thermometer—don’t guess.
Great in air fryer (375°F, 30–35 mins), slow cooker (low 6–8 hrs), or smoker (225°F for 3 hrs).
Leftovers work cold, or in keto tacos, bowls, or stir-fries.
Keep in fridge 4–5 days or freezer 2–3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 310 Sugar: 0.5g Sodium: 440mg Fat: 18g Saturated Fat: 4g Unsaturated Fat: 13g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 2g Fiber: 0g Protein: 35g Cholesterol: 105mg

Find it online: https://www.wellnesswarrior.org/keto-zesty-lime-pork-loin/