Ingredients
- 1-1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 minced cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic (for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A quick blast of high heat keeps the pork juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork: Dry the pork with paper towels so it browns better. Mix olive oil, mustard, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt and pepper in a small bowl. If you are using balsamic vinegar, toss that in too.
Step 3: Season the Tenderloin: Rub this spice mix all over the meat until it's coated well. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so all those good flavors soak in.
Step 4: Sear the Pork: Get a big oven-safe skillet hot over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Sear the pork on each side for about three minutes until it’s golden-brown all over.
Step 5: Roast the Tenderloin: Put that skillet with the pork into your preheated oven. Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the inside hits around 145°F (63°C) for medium flame.
Step 6: Rest the Pork: Take it out and let it rest for around five to ten minutes; this lets juices spread out and keeps things moist.
Step 7: Slice and Serve: Cut into slices and serve warm. Pair it up with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes if you like.
Tips and Variations
- Don’t Overcook: This meat dries out fast when overdone, so always aim around 145°F.
- Searing Flavor: Lock taste by searing first as it creates beautiful crusts.
- Resting Matters: Juices redistribute after cooking; more flavor is retained when waited before slicing.
- More Flavor via Marinating: Got extra time, then just marinate beforehand using olive oil mixtures, herbs, or vinegar.
- Honey and Garlic Glaze: Add two tablespoons honey into rub-mixtures.
- Spicy Kicks and Love them Hot: One-two teaspoons cayenne/chili powder go nicely here.
- Herb Crustings: Fresh parsley mixed alongside other favorites- creates crusty textures.
- Bacon Wraps: Indulge through wrapping the entire thing with strips that ensure moisture.
Nutrition Info (based on four-ounce serving sizes):
Calories: You will get 210 calories with this meal.
Protein: A amount of 22 g of protein is obtained with this meal, in which protein is very important for muscle repair and growth.
Fat: An amount of 12 g is served, which helps you to keep on the diet track.
Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the fuel source of the brain; here, 1 g of carbohydrates is obtained.
Sugars: A g of sugar is contained here.
Fiber: 0 g of fiber is obtained.
Sodium: It regulates blood pressure; here an amount of 300 mg of sodium is added.
Pork tenderloin is a super versatile, lean cut of meat. You can cook it in lots of ways to get a tasty tender meal. Whether you need a quick dinner or something fancy, pork tenderloin fits the bill. Don’t forget the importance of resting the meat and keeping a close eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious, well-rounded meal.
