Save to Pinterest A succulent pork tenderloin roasted to perfection, glazed with a tangy-sweet blend of tart cherries and dates. This elegant, budget-friendly main dish delivers complex flavors with minimal effort.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at family dinners thanks to its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- Pork: 1.5 lbs (700 g) pork tenderloin, trimmed, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Glaze: ½ cup dried tart cherries, 4 Medjool dates pitted and chopped, ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 cloves garlic minced, ¼ cup water
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- In a small saucepan combine tart cherries dates balsamic vinegar honey Dijon mustard garlic and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 7 8 minutes until fruit is soft and mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and blend with an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a blender. Purée until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until browned about 2 3 minutes per side.
- Step 4:
- Brush half the cherry-date glaze over the pork. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 18 22 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Step 5:
- Remove pork from oven. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Step 6:
- Serve pork slices drizzled with remaining glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this dish during family gatherings where its rich flavors always impress everyone at the table.
Required Tools
Oven-safe skillet small saucepan immersion blender or regular blender meat thermometer chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains None of the top 8 allergens Check labels on prepared mustard and dried fruits for hidden allergens or gluten if highly sensitive
Nutritional Information
Calories 315 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 32 g Protein 32 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This pork tenderloin recipe promises a luxurious yet simple meal perfect for any occasion.
Common Questions
- → What is the best way to prepare the cherry-date glaze?
Simmer dried tart cherries and chopped Medjool dates with balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and water until soft and thickened. Then blend to a smooth consistency for an even glaze.
- → How do I ensure the pork tenderloin stays juicy?
Sear the pork on all sides before roasting to seal in moisture, then roast until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for a tender, juicy result. Let it rest before slicing.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the pork in half the cherry-date glaze for up to two hours before cooking to enhance the flavors and save time on the day of cooking.
- → What can I serve alongside this pork tenderloin?
Roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad complement the sweet and tangy glaze perfectly, balancing the rich flavors.
- → Are there any suitable substitutions for tart cherries?
Dried cranberries can be used as an alternative if tart cherries are not available, maintaining a similar sweet and tangy profile.