This peach grilled pork tenderloin is a summer delight! The juicy pork pairs perfectly with the sweetness of fresh peaches, creating a tasty dish that’s sure to please everyone.
I love making this on sunny days! Just fire up the grill, and in no time, you have a delicious meal that feels fancy but is really easy. Plus, who can resist that sweet peach flavor? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! It’s tender and cooks quickly on the grill. If you need a substitute, chicken breasts or thighs work well, but adjust the cooking time accordingly since they might need less or more time depending on thickness.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness and flavor. If they’re not in season, use canned peaches (drained) or peach preserves mixed with a little water. You can also use nectarines for a similar taste.
Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil for flavor, but other oils like avocado oil or canola oil can do the trick too. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness. You can easily swap honey for maple syrup if needed, or use agave syrup for a vegan option. Brown sugar is also a good alternative!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a great smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, though it lacks the smokiness. Feel free to add a little chili powder for heat if you like spice.
How Do I Grill Pork Tenderloin to Perfection?
Grilling pork tenderloin can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it! The key is to get that beautiful sear while keeping it juicy.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps create a nice crust.
- Make sure to oil the grill grates! It prevents sticking and helps achieve grill marks.
- Turn the tenderloin every 3-4 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps you avoid burning.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This gives you juicy, tender meat without drying it out.
- Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute inside, making for a more flavorful bite when sliced.
With these tips, you’re sure to have a delicious meal that impresses everyone!
Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted and chopped (or 1 cup fresh peach puree)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (for sauce garnish)
- Lime and orange wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour to marinate, but if you can let it sit for up to 4 hours, that’s even better! Grilling will take around 15-20 minutes, so overall, you should plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours before you can sit down and enjoy this delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Marinade:
Start by blending your peaches! In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped peaches (or peach puree), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lime juice), minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to create your peach marinade and sauce.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Next, place the pork tenderloin in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the peach marinade over the pork (you’ll use the other half later for serving). Make sure to massage the marinade into the pork, so it gets all the flavors. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 1 hour, but it’s even better if you can let it sit for up to 4 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To keep your pork from sticking, brush the grill grates with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Grill the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin out of the marinade, giving it a little shake to remove excess marinade, then place it on the grill. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy perfection!
5. Let It Rest:
Once the pork is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat and makes for a delicious slice.
6. Slice and Serve:
Now, slice the pork tenderloin into ½-inch thick pieces and arrange them beautifully on a serving platter. Drizzle with the reserved peach sauce for a burst of flavor.
7. Garnish:
For the finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro and finely chopped red onion over the top.
8. Enjoy with Citrus:
Serve your delicious creation with lime and orange wedges on the side. They add a bright, zesty touch that complements the sweetness of the pork and peaches!
This recipe creates a sweet and smoky grilled pork tenderloin glazed with a fresh peach sauce, perfect for summer or any time you crave a light, flavorful meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
FAQ for Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before blending. Frozen peaches may also give a slightly different texture but will still work well in the marinade.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Tenderloin?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 1 hour, but if you can let it sit for 4 hours or overnight in the fridge, that’s even better! The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This grilled pork pairs beautifully with various sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or rice. It’s also lovely with crusty bread to soak up the peach sauce!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep it moist during reheating!
