Pork Tenderloin
Are you ready to indulge in a delicious pork tenderloin that melts in your mouth? This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will impress your family and friends. With a perfect blend of spices and a cooking method that ensures maximum juiciness, this pork tenderloin is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and elevate your dinner experience!
Ingredients
– 1 pound pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lemon
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): 280 calories, 12g fat, 36g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fiber. This is a nutritious option for a hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice.
3. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the marinade all over the pork tenderloin.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil.
6. Sear the pork tenderloin in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
8. Roast for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
10. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh herbs with dried versions if fresh ones are unavailable. For a different flavor, consider using maple syrup instead of honey, or add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
Serving and Pairings
Pork tenderloin pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider serving it with a tangy apple sauce or a light citrus vinaigrette for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pork, which can dry it out.
- Not letting the meat rest after cooking.
- Skipping the searing step, which adds flavor.
- Using too much salt in the marinade.
- Not measuring the internal temperature accurately.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Let the pork come to room temperature before cooking.
- Experiment with different marinades for variety.
- Pair with a complementary sauce for added flavor.
FAQs
How do I know when pork tenderloin is done?
The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
Can I cook pork tenderloin on the grill?
Yes, grilling pork tenderloin is a great option. Just ensure to monitor the temperature closely.
What sides go well with pork tenderloin?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad complement pork tenderloin beautifully.
Is pork tenderloin healthy?
Yes, it’s a lean cut of meat, high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Can I marinate pork tenderloin overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
Conclusion
Pork tenderloin is a versatile and flavorful dish that is sure to impress at any meal. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, you can enjoy a gourmet experience right in your kitchen. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will become a favorite for everyone at your table.
Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
- Rub the marinade all over the pork tenderloin.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil.
- Sear the pork tenderloin in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Roast for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
