This peach grilled pork tenderloin is a tasty dish that brings together juicy pork and sweet peaches. It’s perfect for summer cookouts and easy to make on the grill!
I love how the sweetness of the peaches complements the savory pork. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds, or thirds! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean, tender, and perfect for grilling. If you need a substitute, chicken breasts work well, but adjust grilling time as they cook quicker than pork.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add great flavor, but if they’re out of season, use canned peaches without added sugar. You can also swap in nectarines for a similar taste.
Pear preserves: Peach preserves create a sweet glaze. If you can’t find them, apricot or even orange marmalade can substitute nicely and still impart sweetness.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, choose tamari. You can also use liquid aminos if you want a different take.
Dijon Mustard: It gives a nice tang. If you prefer milder mustard, yellow mustard works fine, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Is Juicy and Tender on the Grill?
Keeping pork tenderloin juicy is all about careful cooking. Start by marinating the meat, which not only adds flavor but also helps keep it moist. The key steps include:
- Marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, or overnight if time allows. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps sear the outside quickly, locking in juices.
- Grill the tenderloin for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 145°F is perfect.
- Rest the cooked pork for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite.
Delicious Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 peaches, pitted and chopped (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup peach preserves
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Pork:
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Orange slices, for serving
- Red onion, finely chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for extra flavor). You’ll need about 25 minutes to grill the pork, making this a great dish for a summer gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped peaches, peach preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. This creates a sweet and savory marinade for the pork.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take your pork tenderloin and place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the pork, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or if you have time, overnight is even better!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, take the pork out of the marinade and throw away the leftover marinade—you won’t need it.
4. Grill the Pork:
Put the pork tenderloin on the grill. Cook it for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the outside has a nice char.
5. Heat the Marinade:
While the pork is grilling, take the reserved marinade (the part you didn’t use on the pork) and pour it into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it starts to simmer, then let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Rest and Slice:
Once your pork is cooked, carefully take it off the grill. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to keep it juicy. Then, slice it into medallions so it’s easy to serve.
7. Serve with Style:
On a platter, arrange the sliced pork and drizzle the thickened marinade over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro, orange slices, and chopped red onion to make it pop. Don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side for a little extra zing! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season or you prefer something else, you can substitute with ripe nectarines or plums, as they offer a similar sweetness and texture. You could also try apricots or even mango for a tropical twist!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Tenderloin?
You can marinate the pork tenderloin for a minimum of 2 hours, but if you have time, letting it marinate overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too tender and mushy.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Access to a Grill?
No problem! You can cook the pork tenderloin in the oven. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and roast the marinated pork in a baking dish for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For a little char, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes!
How to Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat to preserve its moisture. You can also slice and add it to salads or sandwiches for a delicious next-day meal!
