Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a Mediterranean culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe! Imagine tender, juicy pork infused with aromatic herbs, kissed by the flames of the grill, and bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Greece and Italy. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork tenderloin. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin to ensure a tender and juicy final dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- While the pork is marinating, prepare your grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing.
- After the pork has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This helps to ensure even cooking.
- Once the grill is ready, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the pork tenderloin on the grill and close the lid.
- Grill the tenderloin for about 20-25 minutes, turning it every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- During the last few minutes of grilling, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pork for added flavor and moisture.
- Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve warm. Pair it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork tenderloin come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Marinade Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. The longer the pork sits in the herb-infused olive oil, the more flavorful it becomes.
- Grill with Precision: Use a meat thermometer to hit the perfect 145°F internal temperature - this guarantees a juicy, perfectly cooked tenderloin.
- Rest and Relax: Allow the meat to rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, keeping the pork moist and tender.
- Lemon Finale: The fresh lemon juice added during the last few minutes of grilling adds a bright, zesty finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp Greek salad or grilled vegetables to complete your Mediterranean feast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
