Looking for a dish that will impress your family and friends while tantalizing your taste buds? Look no further than this mouthwatering Pork Tenderloin with Melon Salsa! This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines succulent pork with a refreshing, sweet-and-spicy salsa that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you'll discover how easy it is to create a gourmet meal that feels special. Dive into this culinary adventure and elevate your dinner game with this perfect summer dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cantaloupe, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the pork tenderloin cook evenly while allowing it to develop a nice crust.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a good sear.
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This enhances the flavor of the meat.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned pork tenderloin to the skillet.
- Sear the pork for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
- After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork tenderloin for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
- While the pork is roasting, prepare the melon salsa. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of diced cantaloupe, 1/2 cup of diced red onion, the juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, and the minced jalapeño (if using).
- Gently toss the ingredients together until well mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Set the salsa aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Once the pork tenderloin reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender.
- After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Serve the slices topped with the fresh melon salsa for a refreshing contrast to the savory pork.
- Enjoy your Pork Tenderloin with Melon Salsa, a delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Tips
- Searing is Key: Make sure to pat your pork tenderloin dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust during searing.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy, medium pork.
- Rest the Meat: Don't skip the resting period after cooking! Letting the pork sit for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to adjust the ingredients in your melon salsa. Add diced bell peppers for crunch or swap out the jalapeño for a milder flavor if you prefer.
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to make the salsa ahead of time, keep it in the fridge and add the lime juice just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
