This peach grilled pork tenderloin is a delicious way to enjoy summer flavors! The juicy pork pairs perfectly with sweet, caramelized peaches for a tasty meal.
Grilling gives this dish a lovely smoky taste, plus it’s super easy to make. I love serving it with a fresh salad on the side—it’s a hit every time! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean meat cooks quickly and remains tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey tenderloin works great, too. Adjust cooking times slightly as turkey may take a bit longer.
Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches give a wonderful flavor. You can substitute them with peach preserves if fresh ones aren’t available. Just reduce the added honey slightly, as preserves are sweet.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings brightness, but store-bought juice is fine. If you’re looking for something different, try pineapple juice for a fun twist.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami and saltiness. If you’re avoiding gluten, switch to tamari or coconut aminos. For a low-sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce.
Honey: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Maple syrup could replace honey if you’re vegan or need a substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinade is crucial for flavor and moisture. Make sure the pork is well-coated in the marinade. For best results, marinate it overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
- Mix the marinade well, ensuring all ingredients combine.
- Use a zip-lock bag to coat the pork thoroughly.
- While grilling, baste with the reserved marinade. This adds a punch of flavor.
- Always let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This step is vital to keep the juices trapped in the meat.
How to Make Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 to 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup fresh peaches, pureed (or peach preserves)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (optional for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Orange slices
- Red onion, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour of preparation time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate—overnight is best for maximum flavor. The grilling process will only take around 15-20 minutes! In total, you can expect the whole process to take about 2-3 hours, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by making the marinade. In a bowl, combine the pureed peaches (or peach preserves), orange juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This sweet and savory mixture will add a wonderful flavor to the pork!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and place it in a large zip-lock bag or in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better for a deeper flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork is marinating, get ready to grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your pork will cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks.
4. Grill the Pork:
After marinating, remove the pork from the marinade. Don’t throw that marinade away—save it! Place the pork on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to turn it occasionally to get an even cook. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; you want it to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Brush the pork with the reserved marinade in the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.
5. Rest the Meat:
Once cooked, take the pork off the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps keep the juices inside the meat, making it more tender and flavorful!
6. Slice and Serve:
Now for the fun part! Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and arrange them on a serving platter. You can drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro, orange slices, and chopped red onion for that beautiful finishing touch!
7. Enjoy:
Your Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin is ready to be served! Enjoy it warm alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its delightful flavors!
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you use canned peaches, make sure to drain them well and puree them until smooth. You may want to reduce the honey slightly, as canned peaches can be sweeter than fresh.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Orange Juice?
No worries! You can substitute orange juice with apple juice, pineapple juice, or even a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the marinade’s balance.
How to Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave. Adding a bit of broth or water can help keep it moist!
Can I Use Other Meats for This Recipe?
Definitely! This marinade works well with chicken breasts or thighs, as well as steak. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type and thickness of the meat you choose!
