This juicy pork tenderloin roast is the perfect meal for any occasion. With its tender meat and flavorful seasoning, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table!
Making this roast is a breeze! Just season it, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic while you sit back. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut is the star of the dish, known for its tenderness. If pork isn’t available, chicken breast or turkey tenderloin can be a great substitute for a similar cook time and texture.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you prefer a different taste, avocado oil is a great optional substitution since it also has a high smoking point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really amps up the flavor in this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always the best for depth of flavor.
Dried Thyme: Thyme adds a lovely earthy taste. If you don’t have thyme, substitute with dried oregano or Italian seasoning, which provide a similar flavor profile.
Paprika: I use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, but regular paprika will also work. For a bit of heat, try adding cayenne pepper instead.
How Do You Ensure the Pork Tenderloin is Juicy and Tender?
The key to a juicy pork tenderloin is in the marinating, cooking, and resting processes. Marinating it not only adds flavor but also helps in tenderizing the meat!
- Marinating: Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes. If you can give it 4 hours, it’ll be even better. Keep it covered in the fridge to prevent bacterial growth.
- Cooking Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the pork from the oven once it hits 145°F (63°C) for security without drying it out.
- Resting: Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making every slice moist and tender.
Juicy and Tender Pork Tenderloin Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For the Vegetables:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts), diced
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep everything, plus a minimum of 30 minutes for the pork to marinate. The cooking time is around 25 minutes, making for a total of approximately 1 hour to get this delicious roast on your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot oven will help create a beautifully roasted pork tenderloin.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth marinade. It smells amazing, right?
3. Marinate the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and place it in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish with plastic wrap) and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours for extra flavor.
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pork is soaking up all the delicious flavors, wash and chop your mixed vegetables. Spread them out on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss them so they’re nicely coated, and set aside for later.
5. Roast the Pork:
After marinating, take the pork tenderloin out of the fridge and place it on a separate baking sheet. Roast it in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You’ll want your kitchen to smell fantastic during this time!
6. Add the Vegetables:
With about 10-15 minutes left for the pork to cook, spread your prepared mixed vegetables onto the oven rack. Let them roast alongside the pork, soaking up those wonderful flavors.
7. Let it Rest:
Once the pork is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step is important as it allows the juices to settle, keeping the meat juicy when you slice it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Serve it up with those beautifully roasted vegetables on the side. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top. Enjoy your juicy and tender pork tenderloin roast!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is best for this recipe due to its tenderness, you can use pork loin, pork chops, or even chicken breast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—be sure to adjust the roasting time based on the size and thickness of the meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the marinade. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste. Alternatively, serve the dish with a spicy sauce or hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a kick!
What Vegetables Work Best in This Roast?
You can customize the vegetables to your liking! Besides the suggested carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts, you could use zucchini, asparagus, or sweet potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep the pork moist during reheating!
