Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This pork tenderloin recipe with apples and onions is a fantastic choice for busy cooks seeking delicious homemade meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's both impressive and satisfying, perfect for a family meal or a casual dinner party. Get ready to elevate your weeknight routine with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended), cored and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your pork tenderloin cooks perfectly.
Prepare the aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully!), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds the flavor foundation of our dish.
Add the apples: Add the sliced apples to the skillet with the onions. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they begin to soften. Don't overcook them; you want them to retain a bit of texture.
Season and sear the pork: Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt, pepper, sage, and thyme. Once the apples and onions have softened, add the pork tenderloin to the skillet. Sear the pork on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Searing creates a delicious crust and locks in the juices.
Roast to perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork registers 145°F (63°C). The internal temperature is crucial for food safety and ensures perfectly cooked pork.
Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork tenderloin. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space in the skillet for the pork to sear properly. If necessary, sear in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Avoid undercooking or overcooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Rosemary or garlic powder would be delicious additions.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy this delicious dish while it's hot and flavorful!
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: A splash of maple syrup or honey during the roasting process adds a touch of sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Use different apples: Experiment with other apple varieties like Granny Smith or Braeburn.
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or Brussels sprouts alongside the apples and onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The nutritional content will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe for pork tenderloin with apples and onions is a delicious and healthy meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!