This juicy pork tenderloin grilled with sweet peaches is a summer favorite. The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes it truly tasty and enjoyable!
Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be hooked! I love serving it with a simple salad on the side—it’s a perfect match. Happy grilling! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly, perfect for grilling. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, chicken breasts or boneless pork chops can work as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches are key for that natural sweetness. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, use canned peaches in juice or syrup, but rinse them well to reduce sweetness.
Juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juice enhance the flavors. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juices are okay, but fresh really makes a difference!
Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the tangy flavors. Maple syrup can be a good substitute if you’re out of honey.
Jalapeño: For some heat you can use serrano peppers instead. If you prefer milder flavors, just leave it out or use bell peppers for a hint of sweetness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Pork Tenderloin?
Getting those perfect grill marks is all about technique. Here’s how to achieve them:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high; this helps sear the pork quickly.
- After placing the pork on the grill, don’t move it for at least 4-5 minutes. This allows the meat to sear and form a crust.
- Use tongs to turn the pork 90 degrees after a few minutes for a nice crosshatch pattern.
- Turn the pork around every 4-5 minutes until it reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures even cooking and those beautiful grill marks!
Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs pork tenderloin
For the Marinade/Sauce:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and pitted (plus 1 extra peach for sauce)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (half for sauce, half for garnish)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes of cooking time. Plus, you should marinate the pork for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 hours for extra flavor). So, plan for around 1 hour and 45 minutes total, including marinating time. Perfect for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine 2 peeled and pitted peaches, orange juice, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until smooth. This will be your marinade and sauce!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin and place it in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the peach marinade over the pork, making sure it’s coated well. Reserve the other half for the sauce later. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let it marinate for 2-3 hours for the best flavor.
3. Make the Peach Sauce:
Once the pork is marinated, take the reserved marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Dice the extra peach and finely chop half of the red onion, adding them to the pan. If you like some heat, add the chopped jalapeño. Simmer gently over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peach pieces soften and the sauce starts to thicken. Remove from heat and stir in half of the chopped cilantro. Set the sauce aside.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Prepare your grill by heating it to medium-high. Make sure to oil the grates to prevent the pork from sticking.
5. Grill the Pork:
Remove the pork from the marinade (discard the marinade used for soaking). Grill the tenderloin for about 12-15 minutes total, turning every 4-5 minutes to get those nice grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
6. Rest and Slice:
Once grilled, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This is important for keeping it juicy! After resting, slice the pork into medallions.
7. Serve:
Arrange the sliced pork on a plate, then spoon the warm peach sauce over the top. Garnish with the remaining chopped red onion, fresh cilantro leaves, and some orange and lime wedges for extra freshness.
This dish delivers a wonderful balance of juicy grilled pork with sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy peach sauce—a simple yet impressive combo perfect for warm evenings! Enjoy your delicious meal! 😊
FAQ for Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! While peaches add a lovely sweetness, you can substitute them with nectarines, apricots, or even mangoes. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, and you may need to adjust the sweetness in the marinade accordingly.
How Do I Know When the Pork is Done Cooking?
The best way to check the doneness of pork tenderloin is to use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute for optimal juiciness.
Can I Make the Peach Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the peach sauce up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Recipe?
This grilled pork pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even rice or quinoa. For something lighter, consider serving it with a cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast!
