Roasted steak with rosemary and spinach

Pork Neck Roast with Rosemary and Sautéed Spinach

*This spring delight combines succulent meat with the fresh flavors of vegetables. This pork neck roast with rosemary and sautéed spinach recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're preparing a family lunch or looking to impress guests, you'll discover how the combination of simple ingredients can create a special meal.*

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

For the pork neck roast:
- 1 kg pork neck (choose a piece with a layer of fat for juicy meat)
- 1 red bell pepper (a perfect choice for added color and sweetness)
- 1 red onion (adds a note of sweetness and a pleasant visual contrast)
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (its strong aroma will transform the dish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a touch of warmth and color)
- 50 ml olive oil (to add flavor and help with baking)

For the sautéed spinach:
- 1 kg fresh spinach (full of vitamins and minerals, ideal for spring)
- 4 cloves of garlic (to provide an intense and aromatic flavor)
- 50 ml olive oil (to sauté the spinach)
- Salt to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the meat:
- Start by washing the pork neck well under cold running water. This will help remove impurities.
- Cut the meat into thick slices of about 2-3 cm. This will allow for even cooking and will keep the juiciness.

2. Arranging in the tray:
- Take a baking tray and lay the slices of meat in a single layer.
- Clean and slice the bell pepper into thin strips and the red onion into rings. Place them on top of the meat to add a delicious aroma and a crunchy texture.

3. Seasoning:
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and rosemary leaves over the meat and vegetables. Add olive oil to help create a delicious crust and intensify the flavors.
- Gently mix with your hands to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.

4. Baking:
- Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 30 minutes. This step will help keep the juices in the meat.
- After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the meat is browned and crispy.

5. Preparing the sautéed spinach:
- While the meat is baking, wash the spinach well under cold water. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, heat 50 ml of olive oil. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Add the spinach to the pan and sauté for 5-7 minutes until wilted. Add salt to taste.

6. Serving:
- Once the roast is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the pork neck roast alongside the sautéed spinach. You can add a slice of lemon for a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the meat.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the meat: Pork neck is ideal for roasting due to its fat content, which keeps it juicy. If you want a leaner alternative, you can use pork tenderloin.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the side dish.
- Storing the meat: If there is leftover meat, you can use it the next day in salads or sandwiches.

Nutritional benefits:

Pork neck is an excellent source of protein, while spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice. This recipe offers a perfect balance between protein and vegetables, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Of course! You can replace the pork neck with chicken breast or turkey. The cooking time will change, so check the internal temperature of the meat.
- What side dishes can I serve with it? This roast pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green salad, or rice.
- Can it be prepared in advance? The roast can be marinated a few hours ahead or even a day before to intensify the flavors.

In conclusion, the pork neck roast with rosemary and sautéed spinach is an excellent choice for a delicious and healthy meal. Don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and add your personal touch. Bon appétit!