Indulge in a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with our tantalizing Mediterranean Pork Tenderloin with Couscous, crafted effortlessly in a slow cooker! This dish combines the succulent flavors of perfectly seared pork tenderloin with vibrant vegetables and fluffy couscous, making it an irresistible option for your next family dinner or special gathering. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the rich aromas to fill your home while it cooks to perfection over six hours. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful, hassle-free meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork tenderloin
- Couscous
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Spinach
- Feta cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Oregano
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Start with the pork tenderloin; trim any excess fat if necessary. Pat it dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on all sides.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork tenderloin and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it develops a nice golden-brown crust. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the pork.
- While the pork is searing, chop the red onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside. Halve the cherry tomatoes and rinse the spinach under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
- Once the pork tenderloin is seared, transfer it to your slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly. Then, pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Add the rinsed spinach on top, making sure to distribute it evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the pork to become tender and absorb all the flavors from the vegetables and seasonings.
- About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the couscous. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from heat and stir in 1 cup of couscous along with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Cover the saucepan and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork and set it aside. If desired, you can mix in some additional olive oil or seasonings to enhance the flavor.
- Once the pork has finished cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into medallions. The pork should be tender and juicy.
- To serve, place a generous scoop of couscous on each plate, top it with slices of the Mediterranean pork tenderloin, and spoon the sautéed vegetables from the slow cooker over the top. Finish with crumbled feta cheese for an added burst of flavor.
- Enjoy your Mediterranean Pork Tenderloin with Couscous as a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion!
Tips
- Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step! It locks in moisture and creates a delicious crust that elevates the overall flavor of the pork tenderloin.
- Ingredient Prep: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This not only speeds up the process but also ensures a smooth cooking experience.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference. Zucchini, bell peppers, or olives can be excellent additions to enhance the Mediterranean flair.
- Resting Time Matters: After cooking, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Couscous Variations: Experiment with different types of couscous or grains like quinoa or farro for a unique twist. You can also add herbs or spices to the couscous for extra flavor.
- Feta Finish: Don’t forget to sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving—it adds a creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes fantastic leftovers! Use any remaining pork and couscous in wraps, salads, or grain bowls for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 370kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
