Imagine a plate that transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience - where tender, herb-crusted pork medallions dance alongside luxurious cheese tortellini, creating a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing! This Italian-inspired recipe isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey that promises restaurant-quality dining right in your own kitchen. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a spectacular weeknight dinner, these Herbed Pork Medallions with Cheese Tortellini are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cheese tortellini
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by trimming pork tenderloin and cutting into 1-inch thick medallions. Finely chop fresh thyme and rosemary, and mince garlic cloves.
- Season pork medallions generously with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped fresh herbs. Let meat rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb seasonings.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place pork medallions in the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook pork medallions for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until they develop a golden-brown crust and internal temperature reaches 145°F (medium-rare).
- While pork is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes until al dente.
- Remove pork medallions from skillet and let rest on a cutting board, tented with aluminum foil to retain heat and moisture.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and remaining fresh herbs, sautéing for 30 seconds to release aromatic flavors.
- Drain tortellini and transfer to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with herbs and garlic. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Plate the herbed cheese tortellini and arrange pork medallions on top. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, ensuring each serving has an equal portion of pork medallions and tortellini.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Herb Intensity: For more robust herb flavor, crush the fresh thyme and rosemary between your fingers before seasoning the pork to release their essential oils.
- Skillet Selection: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet that conducts heat evenly to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on your pork medallions.
- Meat Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that pork reaches 145°F for a perfect medium-rare, preventing overcooking and maintaining juiciness.
- Tortellini Tip: Don't overcook your tortellini - al dente is the goal! Test a piece a minute before the package instructions suggest for ideal texture.
- Finishing Touch: A final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and chopped herbs just before serving adds a burst of fresh flavor and professional presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 385kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 34g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
