Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece - a perfectly seared, juicy pork tenderloin topped with a vibrant, tangy cherry salsa that dances on your taste buds. This American-inspired recipe is not just a meal; it's a gourmet experience that combines the rich, peppery notes of tender pork with the sweet-tart burst of fresh cherries. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pork tenderloin cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps in achieving a good sear.
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat for better flavor.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust.
- After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork tenderloin for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
- While the pork is roasting, prepare the cherry salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cherries, finely chopped red onion, and balsamic vinegar. Stir gently to mix the ingredients well.
- Taste the cherry salsa and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Set it aside to let the flavors meld while the pork finishes cooking.
- Once the pork tenderloin is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist.
- After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Arrange the slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Top the sliced pork tenderloin with the cherry salsa, allowing the vibrant colors and flavors to enhance the dish.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your Peppered Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Salsa!
Tips
- Always pat your pork tenderloin dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the perfect doneness - 145°F is the sweet spot for juicy, safe-to-eat pork.
- Let the meat rest after cooking to retain its moisture and maximize flavor.
- For an extra flavor boost, try using fresh, in-season cherries when possible.
- If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the seared pork to a baking sheet before roasting.
- The cherry salsa can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated to let the flavors meld even more.
- Don't rush the searing process - a good crust takes time and adds incredible depth to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
