Garlic & Oregano Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Recipe Category: High Protein
Keywords: Healthy, High In Protein, Easy
Description:
This Garlic & Oregano Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. A fragrant marinade made with sherry, balsamic vinegar, fresh oregano, and dried basil infuses the pork with an irresistible combination of savory and tangy notes. Garlic and a splash of lemon juice round out the marinade, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The tenderloin is grilled to perfection, and for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor, you can add oregano and basil stems to the coals while grilling. The result is a tender, juicy pork tenderloin with a subtle hint of smokiness, making it the perfect high-protein dish for your next meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh garlic (minced) | 1 – 1 1/4 cloves |
| Sherry wine | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh oregano (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Dried basil | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 339.3 kcal |
| Fat | 8.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 147.6 mg |
| Sodium | 128.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9.8 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugar | 5.5 g |
| Protein | 47.7 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marinade
Begin by combining the marinade ingredients in a large plastic zipper bag. Add the minced garlic, sherry wine, fresh oregano, dried basil, lemon juice, and black pepper. Seal the bag and shake gently to mix the ingredients together until well combined. -
Marinate the Pork
Add the whole pork tenderloin to the bag with the marinade, ensuring the meat is fully coated. Seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pork to marinate for at least 6 hours, though marinating overnight will yield the best results in terms of flavor. -
Prepare the Pork for Grilling
When you’re ready to cook, remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This will help ensure even cooking. Discard the leftover marinade, as it should not be reused. -
Tuck the Ends for Even Cooking
For a more even grilling experience, you can “tuck under” the tapered ends of the tenderloin. This helps create a more uniform thickness across the entire cut of meat, ensuring that the pork cooks evenly on all sides. -
Enhance the Flavor with Herbs
For an extra punch of herb flavor, consider adding some oregano and basil stems to the hot coals while grilling. The stems will impart a wonderful herbal aroma and flavor to the pork. Alternatively, you can soak oak chips for about 30 minutes and use them for a more pronounced smoky flavor. -
Grill the Pork
Place the tenderloin on the preheated grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side. Ensure you grill all four sides of the tenderloin, totaling around 20 minutes of cooking time. You want the pork to be juicy and just faintly pink in the center. Keep in mind that the meat will continue to cook slightly after it is removed from the grill, so it’s okay if it’s slightly undercooked when taken off the heat. -
Serve and Enjoy
After grilling, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the tenderloin remains juicy and flavorful. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and enjoy this high-protein, flavorful dish!
Tips for Perfection:
- Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to a medium-high temperature (about 400°F / 200°C) for the best grilling results.
- Resting Time: Let the pork tenderloin rest for a few minutes after grilling. This will prevent the juices from escaping when slicing and keep the meat tender.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary in place of the oregano and basil for a unique twist.
Conclusion:
This Garlic & Oregano Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe brings together the aromatic flavors of garlic, oregano, and balsamic vinegar with the smoky richness of the grill. With a prep time of just 6 hours and a quick grilling session, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and full of savory goodness. Enjoy!
