Looking to add some flavor and pizzazz to your next pork tenderloin dinner?
Look no further!
In this article, we’ve rounded up ten mouthwatering side dishes that perfectly complement the tender and succulent pork.
From crispy roasted garlic-parmesan fingerling potatoes to an irresistibly fresh chopped Brussels sprout salad, get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with these delectable options.
And that’s not all – we even have a recipe for braised Brussels sprouts with bacon that will leave you craving for more.
So, get ready to transform your pork tenderloin feast into a culinary masterpiece – let’s dive right in!
pork tenderloin side dishes
Pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Some popular choices include roasted garlic-parmesan fingerling potatoes, chopped Brussels sprout salad, butternut squash gratin, fig and arugula salad, perfect polenta, butternut farro salad with blood orange vinaigrette, roasted garlic cauliflower, lemon pea salad, heirloom tomato salad with rosemary, and braised Brussels sprouts with bacon.
Key Points:
- Pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
- Popular choices include roasted garlic-parmesan fingerling potatoes.
- Chopped Brussels sprout salad is also a popular option.
- Butternut squash gratin is another side dish that complements pork tenderloin.
- Fig and arugula salad is a refreshing choice for a side dish with pork tenderloin.
- Perfect polenta is a delicious and comforting side dish that pairs well with pork tenderloin.
pork tenderloin side dishes – Watch Video
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Pro Tips:
1. Did you know that pork tenderloin is not only delicious on its own, but it also pairs exceptionally well with a wide variety of side dishes? Here are some interesting and little-known trivia about pork tenderloin side dishes:
2. Brussels sprouts may seem like an unlikely companion for pork tenderloin, but these miniature cabbages actually offer a unique flavor profile that complements the savory taste of the meat. When roasted until slightly caramelized, Brussels sprouts provide a delicate balance between bitterness and sweetness that enhances the overall dining experience.
3. Although commonly associated with seafood, risotto is another fantastic side dish for pork tenderloin. The creamy and slightly chewy texture of risotto, combined with flavors like Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, creates a luxurious and comforting accompaniment that elevates the tenderloin to new heights.
4. When it comes to side dishes, don’t forget about the mighty potato – specifically the sweet potato. These orange-fleshed root vegetables offer a subtly sweet taste that pairs exceptionally well with pork tenderloin. Whether roasted, mashed, or made into crispy fries, sweet potatoes add a touch of complexity to the meal.
5. Ever thought of adding fruits to your pork tenderloin side dishes? Try sliced peaches or apricots on the grill alongside the meat. The natural sugars caramelize, intensifying their sweetness, and creating a delightful contrast when enjoyed with the savory pork. This unexpected combination will surely impress your taste buds and guests alike.
Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes
When it comes to finding the perfect side dish to complement pork tenderloin, look no further than these Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes. These golden-brown beauties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The addition of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese takes them to a whole new level of flavor.
To make this delectable side dish, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the fingerling potatoes thoroughly, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast them for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and tender.
In the meantime, prepare the roasted garlic by cutting the top off a head of garlic, drizzling it with olive oil, and wrapping it in foil. Roast the garlic in the oven for about 30 minutes or until it becomes soft and fragrant. Once the garlic is done, squeeze the cloves out of their skins and mash them into a paste.
Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them with the roasted garlic paste and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the potatoes are coated evenly. Serve these delectable roasted potatoes alongside your succulent pork tenderloin for a match made in culinary heaven.
Chopped Brussels Sprout Salad
While Brussels sprouts may not be everyone’s favorite vegetable, this Chopped Brussels Sprout Salad is sure to change some minds. This refreshing salad combines shaved Brussels sprouts with a tangy dressing, crunchy almonds, and sweet dried cranberries.
To prepare this delightful salad, start by thinly slicing the Brussels sprouts using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Place the sliced Brussels sprouts in a large bowl and add the dried cranberries and toasted almonds.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the Brussels sprouts mixture and toss well to ensure every ingredient is coated in the flavorful dressing.
This Chopped Brussels Sprout Salad is perfect for adding a burst of freshness to your meal. Its vibrant colors and flavors perfectly complement the richness of pork tenderloin, making it an excellent choice for a side dish.
Merritt’s Butternut Squash Gratin
If you’re looking for a side dish that combines comfort and elegance, Merritt’s Butternut Squash Gratin is the way to go. This rich and creamy gratin is made with layers of tender butternut squash, Gruyere cheese, and a touch of nutmeg.
To create this decadent dish, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and slice the butternut squash into thin rounds. Butter a baking dish and layer the squash slices, sprinkling each layer with shredded Gruyere cheese and freshly grated nutmeg. Continue layering until all the squash is used.
In a small saucepan, heat cream, garlic, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the layers of squash and cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once the gratin is cooked, remove the foil and broil for an additional 3-4 minutes to get a golden brown crust on top. Remember to keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
This Butternut Squash Gratin is an indulgent side dish that adds a touch of sophistication to any meal. Its creamy texture, combined with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, pairs beautifully with pork tenderloin.
Fig And Arugula Salad
For a side dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet and peppery flavors, the Fig and Arugula Salad is a must-try. This salad brings together the sweetness of fresh figs, the sharpness of arugula, the tang of goat cheese, and the crunch of caramelized walnuts.
To start, gather your ingredients:
- fresh figs
- arugula
- goat cheese
- caramelized walnuts
- a simple balsamic vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Begin by washing and drying the arugula and placing it in a large salad bowl. Cut the fresh figs into quarters and add them to the arugula. For the caramelized walnuts, melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the walnuts and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Cook the walnuts until they become caramelized and slightly sticky.
Tip: Caramelizing the walnuts adds a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the balsamic vinaigrette until well combined. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Crumble the goat cheese over the top and sprinkle with the caramelized walnuts.
The combination of the sweet, juicy figs, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts makes this salad a delightful accompaniment to pork tenderloin. The flavors are perfectly balanced, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chef John’s Perfect Polenta
Polenta is a classic Italian side dish that adds a comforting and hearty element to any meal. Chef John’s Perfect Polenta recipe ensures a velvety smooth texture with a rich, corn flavor that pairs harmoniously with pork tenderloin.
To start, you will need:
- Coarse-ground yellow cornmeal
- Water
- Butter
- Salt
- Parmesan cheese
Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan and gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until the polenta has thickened and the grains are tender.
Once the polenta reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the butter, salt, and Parmesan cheese until everything is well incorporated. The result is a velvety smooth polenta that is ready to be served alongside your succulent pork tenderloin.
“Polenta acts as an excellent canvas to soak up the flavors of the pork.”
The creamy texture and slightly sweet corn flavor of the polenta complement the meat’s rich and savory taste, making it a fantastic choice for a side dish.
Butternut Farro Salad With Blood Orange Vinaigrette
For those seeking a hearty and wholesome side dish that is packed with nutritional benefits, the Butternut Farro Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette is a fantastic option. This salad combines the earthy flavors of farro and roasted butternut squash with a zesty blood orange vinaigrette.
To prepare this vibrant and nutritious salad:
- Cook the farro according to the package instructions until it is tender but still has a slight bite.
- Roast the cubed butternut squash in the oven until it turns golden and caramelizes at the edges.
Once the farro and butternut squash are cooked and cooled, combine them in a large bowl and add chopped fresh parsley and pomegranate arils for an extra burst of color and flavor.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the blood orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the tangy vinaigrette. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to evenly coat all the ingredients.
The Butternut Farro Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette is not only visually appealing but also bursts with delicious flavors. The nuttiness of the farro, the sweetness of the roasted butternut squash, and the tanginess of the blood orange vinaigrette create a symphony of tastes that perfectly complement pork tenderloin.
Roasted Garlic Cauliflower
Cauliflower has gained popularity as a versatile and healthy vegetable, and Roasted Garlic Cauliflower is a delightful side dish that offers a unique twist on this humble vegetable. The combination of roasted garlic and caramelized cauliflower creates a flavorful and satisfying accompaniment to pork tenderloin.
To make this savory side dish, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the cauliflower into florets and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to evenly coat the florets. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and charred in some places.
In the meantime, caramelize the garlic by peeling the cloves and tossing them with olive oil in a small bowl. Transfer the garlic to a skillet and cook over medium-low heat until the cloves turn golden brown and develop a sweet and nutty flavor.
Once the cauliflower is done roasting, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Toss the cauliflower with the caramelized garlic cloves, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh parsley.
This Roasted Garlic Cauliflower is a delightful side dish that offers a unique twist on a classic vegetable. Its smoky flavor and tender texture complement the succulent pork tenderloin beautifully.
Lemon Pea Salad
A vibrant and refreshing Lemon Pea Salad is another side dish that perfectly complements pork tenderloin. The combination of bright citrus flavors, sweet peas, and crunchy vegetables creates a light and flavorful salad that adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
To prepare this zesty salad, blanch the peas in boiling water for a few minutes until they turn bright green. Drain the peas and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to cool quickly and retain their vibrant color. Drain again and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Toss the blanched peas, chopped cucumbers, sliced radishes, and diced red onions in the dressing until well coated.
Garnish the Lemon Pea Salad with fresh mint leaves for a burst of herbaceous aroma and serve it chilled alongside your succulent pork tenderloin. The crispness of the vegetables and the tanginess of the lemon dressing create a refreshing contrast to the rich and flavorful meat.
Heirloom Tomato Salad With Rosemary
When heirloom tomatoes are in season, there’s nothing better than enjoying them in a simple and flavorful salad. The Heirloom Tomato Salad with Rosemary combines the sweet and juicy flavors of colorful heirloom tomatoes with aromatic fresh rosemary for a side dish that bursts with summery goodness.
To create this vibrant salad:
- Slice a variety of heirloom tomatoes into thick slices or wedges and arrange them on a platter.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped fresh rosemary.
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Garlic
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Salt
- Pepper
This creates the dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the tomatoes and let them marinate for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Finish the Heirloom Tomato Salad with Rosemary by topping it with:
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
This adds an extra touch of tanginess and herbaceousness. This salad is bursting with flavors that perfectly complement the delicate taste of pork tenderloin.
Braised Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Braised Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
For those who enjoy the earthy and slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts, the Braised Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is an excellent choice. This side dish combines the flavors of perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon bits for a combination that is both savory and satisfying.
To prepare this dish, follow these steps:
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the bacon fat and cook them over medium heat until they are slightly caramelized and tender.
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, crumble the crispy bacon on top and toss gently to distribute the bacon bits evenly. The natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts combined with the smoky, salty flavor of the bacon makes for a delightful pairing with pork tenderloin.
“Pairing the right side dishes with pork tenderloin can take a meal from good to exceptional.”
Here are ten options to consider for pairing with pork tenderloin:
- Merritt’s Butternut Squash Gratin: Creamy and rich.
- Lemon Pea Salad: Zesty and refreshing.
Remember to get creative with your presentation and serve these dishes with confidence. Your guests will be impressed by the thought you put into crafting a well-rounded and delicious meal. So, fire up the stove, gather your ingredients, and start exploring these delicious and nutritious pork tenderloin side dishes today!
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You may need to know these questions about pork tenderloin side dishes
What is good to serve with pork tenderloin?
A delightful addition to accompany pork tenderloin would be a refreshing side salad made with mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the greens and the vibrant flavors of the tomatoes would complement the tender texture and savory taste of the pork tenderloin wonderfully. Another option to consider is creamy mashed potatoes, with a hint of garlic and a touch of butter. The smooth and velvety texture of the mashed potatoes would create a delightful contrast to the succulent pork tenderloin, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
What side dishes go with teriyaki pork loin?
When serving teriyaki pork loin, there are several side dishes that can complement its flavors. One option is to accompany it with homemade applesauce, which adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory teriyaki sauce. Another possibility is to opt for a lemon and green peas salad, providing a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich pork. Roasted cauliflower can also be an excellent choice, offering a deliciously nutty and slightly charred taste to contrast with the tender pork loin. Additionally, herbed mashed potatoes can be a comforting and flavorful side that pairs well with the umami flavors of the teriyaki sauce. For a lighter option, a bacon and egg salad can provide a delightful combination of textures and flavors that enhance the overall meal. Another alternative is roasted garlic-parmesan fingerling potatoes, which offers a crispy and garlicky side that complements the juicy pork. Lastly, a lemon rice bowl can be a simple and refreshing addition that adds subtle citrus notes to the dish.
What wine goes well with pork tenderloin?
Malbec is another unexpected but excellent wine choice to pair with pork tenderloin. This red wine from Argentina has bold flavors of dark fruits, spices, and a touch of smokiness, which complement the rich and juicy flavors of the pork. With its medium to full body, Malbec adds depth and complexity to the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. The combination of the tender pork and the robust flavors of the Malbec create a harmonious balance that will pleasantly surprise your taste buds.
What are three accompaniments and or sauces commonly used with pork?
Three commonly used accompaniments and sauces for pork include apple sauce, cranberry sauce, and horseradish. Apple sauce provides a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the richness of roast pork, creating a harmonious balance of tastes. Cranberry sauce adds a burst of tartness, adding a delightful contrast to the savory meat. Horseradish, known for its sharp and pungent flavor, adds a unique kick to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile of the pork. Additionally, the citrusy notes of lemons can also serve as a refreshing accompaniment, cutting through the fattiness of the pork and adding a zesty twist to the meal.
Reference source
https://www.allrecipes.com/article/best-side-dishes-pork-tenderloin/
https://www.platingsandpairings.com/pork-tenderloin-side-dishes/
https://www.thereciperebel.com/sides-for-pork-chops/
https://americasrestaurant.com/teriyaki-pork-tenderloin-sides/
