This Juicy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin is a perfect summer dish. The sweet peaches bring a flavorful punch to tender pork, making it juicy and delicious!
Who can resist the combo of sweet and savory? Each bite is a little burst of summer! I love serving this with a fresh salad for a colorful meal that’s a total crowd-pleaser.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut of meat is perfect for grilling. If you prefer a different protein, chicken breasts or thighs work well. Just adjust the cooking time.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches provide a sweet touch to the dish. If they’re out of season, canned peaches can be a handy substitute—just drain them well and blend.
Olive Oil: It adds richness to the marinade. Any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed oil can be used if you don’t have olive oil on hand.
Honey: Honey gives a nice glaze and sweetness. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you want a different flavor profile.
Thyme: Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s taste. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or oregano can be good alternatives.
How Do I Get Juicy Pork Tenderloin?
The key to juicy pork is proper marination and cooking. Marinate your pork for at least an hour; overnight is even better! The acid in the marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuse flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the pork—this helps to sear the outside and lock in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork as soon as it reaches this temperature to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
- Let the meat rest after grilling—this helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Juicy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For the Pork:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- Fresh peach slices and thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the pork (up to 4 hours for better flavor). Grilling takes around 15-20 minutes, and don’t forget to rest the meat for 5-10 minutes before serving. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to prepare this meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, add the sliced peaches, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, honey, minced garlic, fresh thyme, smoked paprika, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until the mixture is smooth to create your flavorful peach marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take your pork tenderloin and place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the peach marinade over the meat, making sure it covers well. Reserve the other half of the marinade for basting. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for enhanced flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill heating up to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Make sure to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Pork:
Once the grill is ready, remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the tenderloin on the grill, turning it occasionally. Brush it with the reserved marinade while grilling. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest the Meat:
When the pork reaches the right temperature, carefully take it off the grill. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes so that the juices can redistribute within the meat. This step is super important for keeping it juicy!
6. Serve:
Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and drizzle it with any warm remaining peach marinade. For a fresh touch, garnish with extra peach slices and sprigs of thyme.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful peach-infused grilled pork tenderloin with family and friends! It’s sure to impress!
FAQ about Juicy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use Frozen Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you can use frozen pork tenderloin! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. This may take several hours or overnight. Avoid using the microwave for thawing, as it can partially cook the meat.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches are out of season or difficult to find, you can use nectarines or even apricots as a substitute. For a different flavor, you could also try canned peaches—just make sure to drain them well before blending.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat in the microwave or skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I Cook This in the Oven Instead of the Grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated pork in a baking dish and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method will also yield delicious results!
