If you’re looking for a dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table, look no further than this garlic and herb pork tenderloin recipe. With the perfect blend of seasoning, this is a delightful way to elevate your weeknight meals or impress guests during a special occasion.
Imagine succulent slices of tender pork infused with aromatic garlic and fragrant herbs, ready to melt in your mouth. This dish is not just about cooking meat; it’s about creating a memorable dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe simplifies the process while delivering robust flavors and tender results. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.
Preparation of the Marinade
The key to a flavorful pork tenderloin lies in the marinade. Begin by combining minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme in a bowl. The aromatic properties of these ingredients will infuse the meat with their essence.
Next, add olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and zest to the mixture. This combination not only enhances the taste but also helps to tenderize the pork, ensuring each bite is juicy.
Marinating the Tenderloin
After preparing the marinade, it’s time to coat the pork tenderloin. Place it in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Allow the pork to soak in these flavors for at least 30 minutes, although a longer marination of up to 4 hours in the refrigerator is recommended for deeper penetration of flavors.
During this time, the herbs and garlic will meld with the pork, setting the stage for a delicious meal. Make sure to turn the meat occasionally to ensure even coverage.
Searing for Flavor
Once the marinating process is complete, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Searing the pork in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side is essential. This step creates a beautiful brown crust that locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
The sizzling sound of the pork hitting the hot skillet is a welcomed precursor to the savory meal that awaits. Pay close attention to achieve a lovely golden-brown color.
The Roasting Process
After searing, transfer the skillet directly to the oven for roasting. This method is efficient and adds to the dish’s overall depth of flavor.
Roast the pork tenderloin for about 20-25 minutes. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This temperature ensures the meat remains juicy while being fully cooked.
Resting and Slicing
Once the pork is out of the oven, it’s crucial to let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing dryness when sliced.
After resting, slice the tenderloin into medallions. The tender, flavorful pieces should be arranged beautifully on a rustic wooden cutting board, ready for serving.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
To elevate the visual appeal, garnish the sliced pork with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges. The vibrant colors contrast with the golden-brown meat, creating an inviting presentation.
Consider serving the pork alongside seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. The inviting aroma and appealing look of this dish will surely captivate your guests at the dining table.
Delicious Garlic and Herb Pork Tenderloin
This pork tenderloin is marinated in a mixture of garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. The slight crispiness on the outside combined with the tenderness on the inside makes every bite a delight.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator).
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the Pork: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the marinated pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Roast: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Slice: Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice into medallions and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
