Looking to take your pork tenderloin dinner to the next level?
Look no further!
Today, we dive into the world of delectable pork tenderloin sides that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
From mouthwatering roasted vegetables to irresistible cheesy potatoes, prepare to tantalize your palate with these incredible flavor combinations.
And just wait until you hear about the braised Brussels sprouts with bacon!
Stay tuned for the perfect pairings that will elevate your pork tenderloin feast to new heights of deliciousness.
pork tenderloin sides
When it comes to choosing sides for pork tenderloin, there are numerous options to complement its flavor.
Some popular and flavorful side dishes include roasted Brussels sprouts, butternut squash gratin, cheesy grits casserole, cherry chipotle salad, roasted cauliflower, whipped sweet potatoes, couscous salad, roasted green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, oven-roasted plums, fried cabbage, fig and arugula salad, fresh applesauce, caramelized onions with sweet apples, roasted garlic-Parmesan fingerling potatoes, chopped Brussels sprout salad, Merritt’s butternut squash gratin, Chef John’s 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:
- There are numerous side dishes that can complement the flavor of pork tenderloin.
- Some popular options include:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Cheesy grits casserole
- Cherry chipotle salad
- Other options include:
- Whipped sweet potatoes
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted green beans
- Additional choices include:
- Oven-roasted plums
- Fig and arugula salad
- Chopped Brussels sprout salad
- There are also options like:
- Caramelized onions with sweet apples
- Roasted garlic-Parmesan fingerling potatoes
- Lastly, there are choices like:
- Lemon pea salad
- Heirloom tomato salad with rosemary
- Braised Brussels sprouts with bacon.
pork tenderloin sides – Watch Video
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Pro Tips:
1. Did you know that pork tenderloin sides, also known as “the silver skin,” are a thin, tough membrane that should always be removed before cooking? It can be quite chewy and can prevent marinades and seasonings from penetrating the meat properly.
2. Pork tenderloin sides are a great source of essential nutrients such as thiamin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy choice for meat lovers.
3. Pork tenderloin sides are incredibly versatile and can be prepared using different cooking methods such as grilling, roasting, or even stir-frying. This makes them an ideal option for various cuisines and flavor profiles.
4. The pork tenderloin is actually one of the most tender cuts of meat available, which is why it is called “tenderloin.” This muscle is not frequently used during the pig’s life, resulting in its tender texture.
5. In many cultures, including China and Spain, pork tenderloin sides are considered a delicacy and are often prepared with unique ingredients and spices. From honey-glazed to bacon-wrapped, the possibilities for delicious pork tenderloin sides are endless!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pork tenderloin. The caramelized outer leaves and tender center create a delightful contrast in texture. To prepare this dish, start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
Next, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20 minutes, or until the sprouts are golden brown and tender.
The roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to your plate, enhancing the savory goodness of the pork tenderloin. This side dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice.
Butternut Squash Gratin
A rich and creamy butternut squash gratin is the perfect accompaniment to pork tenderloin. This elegant side dish combines layers of tender butternut squash, delicious cheese, and a touch of nutmeg for a burst of flavor.
To make this gratin, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Peel and slice the butternut squash into thin rounds. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté finely diced onions until translucent. Layer the squash slices and onions in a baking dish, sprinkling each layer with grated cheese and a pinch of nutmeg.
Pour a mixture of cream and milk over the layers and top with more cheese. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The creamy and savory butternut squash gratin adds a touch of sophistication to your pork tenderloin dinner.
Cheesy Grits Casserole
A southern classic, cheesy grits casserole brings a comforting and savory element to your pork tenderloin meal. This side dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors.
To prepare this dish, start by cooking grits according to package instructions until they are thick and creamy. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, garlic, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
The creamy and cheesy grits casserole adds a comforting and indulgent touch to your pork tenderloin dinner, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Serve it alongside pork tenderloin or any other main dish
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for added flavor
- Garnish with fresh herbs or spices for a pop of color and taste
- Make ahead and reheat for an easy weeknight side dish
“Cheesy grits casserole: a comforting and versatile side dish that elevates any meal.”
Cherry Chipotle Salad
A refreshing and tangy cherry chipotle salad can be the perfect companion to your succulent pork tenderloin. This salad combines the sweetness of cherries with the smoky and spicy flavor of chipotle for a unique and delicious twist.
To make this salad, start by combining mixed greens, pitted cherries, chopped red onions, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chipotle pepper, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
The combination of the sweet cherries, tangy feta cheese, and smoky chipotle dressing adds a burst of contrasting flavors to your pork tenderloin meal, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower is a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with pork tenderloin. The caramelized edges and tender interior of the roasted cauliflower provide a delightful contrast in texture.
To prepare this dish, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer.
Roast the cauliflower for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and the edges are crispy. The roasted cauliflower brings a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the table, complementing the savory notes of the pork tenderloin.
Whipped Sweet Potatoes
Whipped sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish that adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess to your pork tenderloin feast. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs harmoniously with the tender and flavorful pork tenderloin.
To make this dish, start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes. Boil them until they are tender and easily mashed. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the sweet potatoes. Using an electric mixer, whip the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust the flavors according to your taste preference.
The whipped sweet potatoes provide a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness to your pork tenderloin, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes
- Boil until tender
- Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl
- Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt
- Whip until smooth and creamy
- Adjust flavors to taste preference
“The whipped sweet potatoes provide a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness to your pork tenderloin, creating a delightful balance of flavors.”
Couscous Salad
A light and refreshing couscous salad can be a perfect side dish to cut through the richness of the pork tenderloin. This salad is incredibly versatile and can be customized according to your taste.
To prepare this salad, cook the couscous according to package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool and transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add finely chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and toss well to combine.
The couscous salad provides a light and refreshing element to your pork tenderloin meal, making it a perfect choice for a summer gathering or a light lunch.
Roasted Green Beans
Roasted green beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that adds a wonderful crunch and vibrant color to your pork tenderloin dinner. The slight charring and tender-crisp texture of the green beans elevate their flavor to a whole new level.
To prepare this dish, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Trim the ends of the green beans and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer.
Roast the green beans for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are vibrant in color and slightly blistered. The roasted green beans bring a fresh and crunchy element to the plate, complementing the tenderness of the pork tenderloin.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs exceptionally well with pork tenderloin. The creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes provide a rich and indulgent side dish that enhances the overall dining experience.
To make this dish, peel and dice russet potatoes. Boil them until they are tender and easily mashed. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
Add butter, warm milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Using a potato masher, mash the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the flavors according to your taste preference.
The creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes add a perfect balance of comfort and flavor to your pork tenderloin, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
- Peel and dice russet potatoes
- Boil until tender and easily mashed
- Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl
- Add butter, warm milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper
- Mash until smooth and creamy
- Adjust flavors according to taste preference
“The creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes add a perfect balance of comfort and flavor to your pork tenderloin, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.”
Oven-Roasted Plums
To end your pork tenderloin feast on a sweet and fruity note, oven-roasted plums make a delightful side dish. The heat intensifies the natural sweetness of the plums, creating a burst of flavor on your palate.
To make this dish, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Halve and pit the plums. Toss them in a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Spread the plums out on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Roast them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
The oven-roasted plums provide a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory pork tenderloin, leaving you with a satisfying and refreshing ending to your meal.
With these delicious and nutritious sides, your pork tenderloin dinner will be elevated to a whole new level. From the roastiness of Brussels sprouts and cauliflower to the creaminess of gratin and whipped sweet potatoes, each side dish brings a unique flavor profile to the table. Choose your favorites and indulge in the perfect harmony of flavors. So why wait? Explore these delightful side dishes and discover new flavors to elevate your next pork tenderloin meal.
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You may need to know these questions about pork tenderloin sides
What do you eat with pork tenderloin?
To complement the succulent flavors of pork tenderloin, you can choose from a variety of delicious side dishes. One option is to serve it with roasted garlic-parmesan fingerling potatoes, which adds a savory and crispy element to the dish. For a lighter option, a chopped Brussels sprout salad can provide a refreshing and crunchy contrast. Another alternative is to pair the pork tenderloin with a fig and arugula salad, adding a touch of sweetness and peppery notes to the meal. These side dishes, along with others like butternut squash gratin or lemon pea salad, can create a well-balanced and satisfying accompaniment to pork tenderloin.
What goes with teriyaki pork tenderloin?
To complement the flavors of teriyaki pork tenderloin, consider serving it with a side of sesame-infused Asian noodles. This combination adds a delightful contrast to the savory, tender meat. Alternatively, for a lighter option, pair it with a fresh cucumber and carrot salad tossed in a tangy ginger dressing. The crispness of the salad adds a refreshing element to the meal, making it a well-rounded dining experience.
What is a good binder for pork tenderloin?
While olive oil is often a popular choice as a binder for pork tenderloin, another excellent option to consider is Dijon mustard. Not only does it add a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the meat, but it also provides a nice base for seasonings to adhere to. Similar to using olive oil, simply apply a generous amount of Dijon mustard to the pork tenderloin before seasoning it with your desired rub or spice blend. This combination will create a delicious crust and help keep the meat moist during the cooking process.
Is pork tenderloin a healthy meat?
Pork tenderloin can be considered a healthy meat option, especially when compared to cured pork products like bacon and ham that have higher sodium content. Unlike these products, fresh pork is naturally low in sodium. Additionally, pork tenderloin and other loin cuts are rich in essential nutrients such as protein, thiamine, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and niacin. They also provide a good amount of potassium, riboflavin, and zinc, making them a nutritious choice for a well-balanced diet.
Reference source
https://www.allrecipes.com/article/best-side-dishes-pork-tenderloin/
https://www.thereciperebel.com/sides-for-pork-chops/
https://www.recipegirl.com/teriyaki-pork-tenderloin/
https://www.heathrilesbbq.com/blogs/favorite-recipes/holiday-pork-tenderloin-on-the-outlaw-smoker
