Looking for a delicious and wholesome meal that won't break the bank? Look no further than our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe, coming in at just 349 calories per serving. This succulent cut of meat is coated in a mouth-watering glaze that's sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Pork tenderloin is also an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B-12, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. And with just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of active cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights
In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks for cooking the perfect pork tenderloin, as well as some tasty meal pairing suggestions to round out your dinner. Let's get started!
Ingredients and Cooking Time
To make this delicious pork tenderloin recipe, you will need the following ingredients: 1 lb pork tenderloin, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ground ginger, and salt and pepper to taste. Preheat your oven or grill to 400 degrees F. Prepare the pork tenderloin by trimming any excess fat and patting it dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush the glaze over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Roast the pork tenderloin in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F. Alternatively, grill the pork tenderloin over medium-high heat for approximately 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F. Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Flavor Profile
The sweet and savory glaze used in this pork tenderloin recipe adds depth and complexity to the dish, while the tender and juicy pork itself provides a satisfying protein boost. The honey and soy sauce provide a sweet and salty flavor, while the garlic and ginger add warmth and spice. The glaze also helps to seal in the moisture of the pork tenderloin, ensuring that it stays juicy and delicious throughout the cooking process. This combination of flavors and textures is sure to make your taste buds sing.
Our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe is a great choice for anyone looking to incorporate more lean protein into their diet. A single serving of this recipe contains 349 calories, 15g of fat, and 27g of protein. This dish is also a good source of iron, providing 15% of your daily recommended intake, as well as vitamin B-12, which is essential for healthy brain function and nerve tissue. The soy sauce used in this recipe is also high in sodium, so be mindful of your salt intake if you're watching your blood pressure.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven or grill to 400 degrees F. 2. Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with a paper towel. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Oven Roasting vs. Grilling
While our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe can be cooked on both the oven and the grill, there are some differences in the cooking process that you might want to consider. Roasting the pork tenderloin in the oven is a great option for those who want a hands-off approach to cooking. Simply season the pork, brush on the glaze, and let it roast in the oven while you prep your sides. This method also allows for more precise temperature control, ensuring that your pork comes out perfectly cooked every time. Grilling the pork tenderloin, on the other hand, is a great option for those who love the flavor and char that comes from cooking over an open flame. This method requires a bit more attention and finesse, as the heat of the grill can easily dry out the pork if not monitored closely. However, it's a great option for outdoor cooking on warm summer nights.
Meal Pairing Suggestions
Our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe pairs well with a variety of sides and accouterments, depending on your tastes and preferences. For a classic pairing, try serving this dish with mashed sweet potatoes and steamed green beans, drizzled with a bit of the leftover glaze. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of the pork, while the green beans add a touch of freshness to the plate. Alternatively, you could serve this dish with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado, dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The tanginess of the vinaigrette helps to cut through the richness of the pork, while the avocado adds a creamy, luxurious texture.
Leftover Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers of our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe, it's important to store them properly in order to maintain their freshness and flavor. To store leftover pork, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the pork in the oven or microwave and cook until warmed through. Be sure to drizzle a bit of extra glaze over the top to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Variations and Substitutions
Looking to put your own twist on our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe? Here are a few variations and substitutions you could try: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze. If you prefer a milder flavor profile, omit the minced garlic and ginger and season the pork with just salt and pepper before brushing on the glaze. You could also substitute the soy sauce for a lower-sodium option, like tamari or coconut aminos, or use agave in place of the honey for a vegan-friendly version.
Health Benefits of Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. It's also a good source of iron, which helps to transport oxygen throughout the body and is especially important for women who are pregnant or menstruating. Additionally, pork tenderloin is rich in vitamin B-12, which is needed for healthy brain function and nerve tissue. And because it's a low-fat protein source, pork tenderloin is a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Serving Size and Portion Control
When it comes to portion control, it's important to be mindful of serving sizes in order to maintain a healthy diet. A single serving of our Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe is approximately 4-5 ounces, or about the size of a deck of cards. There are a few tricks you can use to help you control your portions, such as measuring your food with a food scale or using smaller serving plates. You could also try filling half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, like salad or roasted Brussels sprouts, to help you feel full while still enjoying a satisfying portion of meat.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Sweet Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin
1. How is the pork tenderloin prepared?
The pork tenderloin is roasted in the oven until fully cooked and tender. It is then glazed with a sweet and savory sauce made of brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger.
2. What sides go well with this dish?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables such as carrots or broccoli, or a simple side salad. Mashed potatoes or rice also make great accompaniments.
3. Can I use a different glaze for the pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can use any type of glaze or sauce that you prefer. Some popular alternatives include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a citrus-based marinade.
4. How can I tell if the pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
The pork tenderloin will be fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the meat to ensure that it is safe to eat.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork tenderloin and the glaze ahead of time and keep them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply bring the pork to room temperature, glaze it, and roast it in the oven.