This Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin is a real winner! The juicy pork combined with sweet, tangy peaches gives it a special taste that everyone will love. It’s quick to cook and perfect for a sunny day!
I always enjoy grilling this dish because it’s so simple. Just season, grill, and enjoy—no fuss! Plus, the smell of grilling peaches is irresistible. 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is tender and cooks quickly, making it perfect for grilling. If you need a substitute, you could use chicken breasts or pork chops, but cooking times will vary.
Peaches: Sweet, ripe peaches are essential for flavor. If they’re out of season, canned peaches can work, but drain them well. Apricots could also be a fun twist!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness. If fresh is not available, bottled juice will suffice. You could also substitute with pineapple juice for a different flavor.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Use honey for a floral sweetness, but maple syrup is a great alternative for a richer taste. If you prefer a sugar-free option, agave syrup could work too.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can replace it with parsley or omit it altogether.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Tenderloin?
Grilling pork tenderloin to perfection involves a few key steps. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat—this helps achieve those lovely grill marks and sear.
- Before grilling, let the pork marinated well. Ideally, it should sit for 3-4 hours but even 1 hour will make a difference.
- Remove the pork from the marinade (discard it) and place it on the hot grill.
- Check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F for juicy pork. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
- Let the pork rest after grilling. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to settle, keeping your meat moist and flavorful.
Grilling is a great way to bring out flavors, so don’t rush the process. Enjoy the aroma and take your time!
Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for grilling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion (for sauce)
- Orange and lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 15-20 minutes for grilling. Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for extra flavor). So, plan on about 1 hour for marinating and 35 minutes for grilling and resting. Perfect for a summer evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Sauce and Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped peaches, orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. This will be both your marinade and your topping!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow bowl. Pour half of the peach sauce marinade over the pork, making sure it’s well coated. Reserve the other half for later use. Seal or cover the pork and refrigerate it. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but try to aim for 3-4 hours if you can for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat Your Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Don’t forget to brush the grill grates with a little extra olive oil to prevent sticking—this will help the pork come off easily when it’s done!
4. Grill the Tenderloin:
Take the marinated pork out of the fridge and remove it from the marinade (discard the used marinade). Place the pork on the grill. Cook it for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F.
5. Rest and Slice:
After removing the pork from the grill, let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and juicy! After it has rested, slice the pork into ½-inch thick pieces.
6. Serve:
Arrange the sliced pork beautifully on a serving platter. Drizzle the reserved peach sauce over the top. For extra flair and flavor, sprinkle with chopped cilantro and diced red onion. Add some lovely lime and orange wedges around for decoration and a zesty touch!
7. Enjoy!
This Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin dish goes wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad. Dig in and savor the delightful flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you can use frozen pork tenderloin! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before marinating and grilling. Thawing ensures even cooking and helps maintain the tenderness of the meat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags, and it will last for about 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season, you can use canned peaches in syrup (drained) or even substitute with other fruits like apricots or nectarines. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it should still be delicious!
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This dish is versatile! It pairs well with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious peach sauce. You can also serve it with a fruity salsa on the side for added flavor.
