Why Make This Recipe
Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter is a delightful dish that boasts flavor and ease. It combines tender pork with fresh vegetables, all enhanced by a delicious spiced butter.
This recipe not only highlights simple ingredients but also offers a wholesome and comforting meal. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Equipment Needed for Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
To prepare this recipe, you will need a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment.
You will need a rimmed baking dish or sheet for roasting the pork and vegetables. An instant-read thermometer is essential for checking the doneness of the pork.
Make sure you have a medium mixing bowl for combining the butter and spices, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for preparing your vegetables and slicing the pork.
What You Need to Make Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
- 2 pork tenderloins
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 sticks (220g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, optional
- 2 sprigs tarragon
- 3 sprigs parsley
- 3 sprigs cilantro
- 6 sprigs chives
- 1 sprig thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne, optional
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 scallions, roughly chopped
- 2 tomatoes, quartered
- 1 red onion, quartered
- 1/2 head of garlic
- 2 potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
How to Cook Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter Step by Step
Start by combining softened butter in a medium bowl with flour, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency. This compound butter is a key element that adds rich flavor to the dish.
Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare a rimmed baking dish by arranging the chopped vegetables and herbs. Drizzle them with approximately 1/4 cup of vegetable stock, followed by olive oil. Be sure to season everything lightly with salt and pepper for an added burst of flavor.
At this stage, place the pork tenderloins onto the arranged vegetables. Use a spatula or knife to generously coat the pork with the compound butter mixture. Make sure the pork is well-covered to help lock in moisture and flavor while cooking.
Once everything is properly set, bake the pork tenderloins and vegetables for about 15 minutes. After this initial baking time, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Here, you will tent a piece of foil over the pork to keep it from browning too quickly while allowing the inside to continue cooking evenly.
Return the dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (62°C). Make sure to use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness accurately.
After the pork and vegetables are cooked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes, keeping it covered with the foil. This resting period is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the pork, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
When ready to serve, slice the pork tenderloins against the grain for tenderness. Serve alongside the roasted vegetables for a complete and wholesome meal.
How to Serve Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
When serving baked pork tenderloin, presentation matters. Arrange the sliced pork tenderloin attractively on a platter. Surround it with the colorful roasted vegetables to create an inviting look.
You may choose to drizzle some of the melted spiced butter from the baking dish over the pork for an extra touch of flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness and visual appeal.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even casual gatherings, making it versatile for different settings.
What to Serve with Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
While the pork tenderloin with vegetables is a standalone meal, you can enhance your dining experience by serving it with side dishes that complement its flavors.
A light salad, perhaps with mixed greens, balsamic vinaigrette, and nuts, can offer a refreshing contrast. Brown rice or quinoa can serve as a healthy carbohydrate option that pairs well with the dish.
For those who enjoy bread, crusty rolls or a rustic baguette can be delightful for soaking up any juices.
How to Store Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly will ensure their freshness. Allow the pork and vegetables to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
Refrigerate the leftovers, where they will keep well for 3 to 4 days. If you need to store the dish longer, consider freezing it. Place the pork and vegetables in separate airtight containers, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator the night before you plan to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
To ensure the best results, here are some helpful tips. Always let your pork tenderloin reach room temperature before cooking; this helps it cook more evenly.
Use fresh herbs for the compound butter; their flavor is far superior to dried herbs. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding different spices to the butter based on your preference.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside, as this affects cooking times. Don’t skip the resting period after baking; it’s crucial for juiciness.
Variation
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can change the vegetables based on what is seasonal or available. Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can all add their unique flavors.
For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper or even some chopped jalapeños to the butter mixture. You can also swap the pork tenderloin with chicken breast for a different protein option.
Best Time to Make Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter
Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter is a fantastic dish for any time of year. It’s especially great during the fall and winter months when you want a comforting and hearty meal.
However, its simplicity makes it equally suitable for quick weeknight dinners. Also, it can work for holiday gatherings, as it looks beautiful and feeds a group with ease.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes to avoid when making this dish. First, overcooking the pork can lead to a dry result. Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Another mistake is not allowing the meat to rest after cooking. Skipping this will result in juices spilling out when sliced. Additionally, be careful not to overcrowd the vegetables in the baking dish, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Nutritional Notes
Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, lower in fat compared to other cuts. It is rich in protein, making it a healthy option for any meal.
The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish nutritious as well as delicious. Including a variety of colorful vegetables also ensures a range of nutrients, which is essential for a balanced diet.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pork tenderloin for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork tenderloin, but it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for even results.
What can I serve as a dessert after this meal?
A light dessert like fruit sorbet or a simple fruit salad can be a refreshing way to end the meal, keeping it light after a hearty main course.
Can I make the compound butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! The compound butter can be made a day or even a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to use it.
Conclusion
In summary, Baked Pork Tenderloin with Vegetables and Spiced Butter is not only tasty but also simple to make. The combination of tender pork and colorful roasted vegetables, all enhanced by flavorful spiced butter, creates a meal that’s satisfying and comforting.
It’s a dish full of possibilities, allowing for variations based on personal taste. Whether for a gathering or an everyday meal, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the ease of preparation this dish has to offer!
