Enjoy a flavorful and juicy pesto pork tenderloin that’s quick to prepare. Perfect for weeknights, this recipe delivers fresh taste and effortless cooking.
Pesto Pork Tenderloin – Easy Weeknight Dinner
If you’re looking for a delicious and quick main dish, pesto pork tenderloin is a perfect choice. This recipe blends the fresh, herbaceous flavor of basil pesto with tender, juicy pork loin, resulting in a dinner that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
The pesto pork tenderloin cooks fast and makes a wonderful centerpiece for any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to pull together this flavorful dish.
Why You’ll Love It
Pesto pork tenderloin is packed with bright, fresh flavor thanks to the basil pesto, yet it remains incredibly tender and juicy. The quick cooking time means it’s a suitable option for busy schedules without compromising taste. Plus, it’s a great way to add a gourmet touch to your weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 lb) – the leanest cut of pork that cooks quickly and stays moist
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto – store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine – to secure the rolled pork
Substitutions: You can swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweeter twist, or use garlic herb butter in place of olive oil for searing. For a dairy-free pesto option, try a vegan pesto recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper.
- Spread the prepared pesto evenly over the entire pork tenderloin.
- Carefully roll the pork tenderloin tightly and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold its shape while cooking.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from oven and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing into medallions.
Expert Tips
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—145°F is safe and juicy. Letting the pork rest allows juices to redistribute, keeping it tender. You can make pesto ahead or use leftovers for a shortcut. For scaling, double or halve pork and adjust cooking time slightly.
Storage
Store leftover pesto pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pork.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free basil pesto.
- Vegan: Replace pork tenderloin with a thick grilled portobello mushroom or tofu and use vegan pesto.
- Low-Carb: Served with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice.
FAQ
- How long does it take to cook pesto pork tenderloin?
- It takes about 15-20 minutes in the oven after searing, totaling roughly 30 minutes including prep.
- Can I prep pesto pork tenderloin ahead of time?
- Yes, you can spread the pesto and roll the pork up a few hours ahead, then refrigerate before cooking.
- What side dishes go well with pesto pork tenderloin?
- Try serving with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Is pesto pork tenderloin healthy?
- This dish is lean, protein-packed, and uses fresh herbs, making it a nutritious option for your meals.
- Can I make pesto pork tenderloin in an air fryer?
- Yes, sear first if possible, then cook in the air fryer at 400°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Call to Action
Give this pesto pork tenderloin recipe a try tonight and let us know how it turns out! Share your tips, variations, or questions in the comments below. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next easy weeknight dinner and share it with friends who love simple, tasty meals.
