Heart-Healthy Grilled Pork Belly
Savor the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition with this Heart-Healthy Grilled Pork Belly recipe—a lighter take on a classic favorite. Leaned down by trimming excess fat and marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme, this dish delivers bold herbaceous flavors with a hint of natural sweetness from honey. Expertly grilled to achieve a smoky char while locking in moisture, the pork belly transforms into tender slices that pair beautifully with a side of crisp grilled vegetables or a vibrant salad. Ready in under an hour, this dish is a flavorful, heart-conscious alternative for barbecue nights or weeknight dinners. Perfect for those seeking healthier options without sacrificing taste!
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Ingredients
- 500 grams pork belly
- 60 milliliters fresh lemon juice
- 15 milliliters extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon honey
Directions
Step 1
Start by trimming as much visible fat from the pork belly as possible to make it leaner, which is key for a heart-healthier dish.
Step 2
In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, ground black pepper, sea salt, and honey. Whisk the ingredients together to form a marinade.
Step 3
Place the pork belly in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 4
Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Allow the grill to heat thoroughly, as a hot grill will sear the pork belly, locking in flavors and moisture.
Step 5
Remove the pork belly from the marinade, letting any excess marinate drip off before placing it on the grill. Discard the remaining marinade.
Step 6
Place the pork belly on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes per side, flipping once, until the pork is nicely charred and cooked through.
Step 7
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is safely cooked.
Step 8
Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting helps retain the juices within the meat.
Step 9
Serve the grilled pork belly slices warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete a heart-healthy meal.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 612.8 grams (612.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2810 |
| Total Fat 279.20g | 358% |
| Saturated Fat 98.60g | 493% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
| Cholesterol 360mg | 120% |
| Sodium 1532mg | 67% |
| Total Carbohydrate 26.50g | 10% |
| Dietary Fiber 1.40g | 5% |
| Total Sugars 18.70g | |
| Protein 47.80g | 96% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 64mg | 5% |
| Iron 3mg | 18% |
| Potassium 779mg | 17% |
Source of Calories