I’m so excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: **Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin**! Every time I make this dish, it brings back such warm memories of family dinners during the holidays when the air was crisp and the kitchen was filled with delicious aromas. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples complements the savory pork perfectly—it’s a dish that truly sings the flavors of the season. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple, so you can impress your family or guests without breaking a sweat!
What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. I remember the first time I served it at a gathering—half my friends were raving about the juicy pork while the other half were asking for extra cranberry apple sauce to spread onto their rolls! So whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
What’s in Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin?
– Pork Tenderloin: The star of the show! This cut is incredibly tender and takes on flavors beautifully. I recommend choosing a fresh cut when you can for the best results.
– Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential! These two will enhance the flavors of the pork and the sauce.
– Olive Oil: Used for searing the pork. I prefer a good quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor.
– Fresh Cranberries: They add a lovely tartness and are a fall favorite. If you can’t find fresh, feel free to use frozen; just don’t thaw them before cooking!
– Apple: I like using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples because they balance the sweetness of the brown sugar perfectly. They’re also firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.
– Apple Juice or Cider: This adds moisture and sweetness to the sauce. If you can get fresh apple cider, use that for an extra punch of flavor.
– Brown Sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
– Cinnamon and Thyme: These spices bring warmth and an aromatic touch. Thyme can be used fresh or dried, depending on what you have.
– Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a touch of acidity and depth to the dish, enhancing all the flavors beautifully.
– Fresh Parsley: Just a sprinkle on top for freshness and a pop of color when serving—because we eat with our eyes first, right?
Is Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only delectable but also has some great nutritional benefits.
– Pork Tenderloin: It’s a lean source of protein, making it a healthy choice for dinner. It’s low in fat but high in vitamins and minerals, which is a win in my book!
– Cranberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C which can help support your immune system—perfect as we head into chilly months!
– Apples: They’re full of fiber and vitamins. Plus, the fiber helps keep you feeling full longer, making this a satisfying meal.
While the dish has its healthy aspects, moderation is key, especially with ingredients like brown sugar. But trust me, a little bit of sweetness in life is always warranted!
Ingredients
– 1 pound pork tenderloin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup apple juice or cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Fresh parsley for garnishing
*This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or family!*
How to Make Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), because a sizzling start is always a good idea!
2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—seasoning is what makes a good dish great!
3. In a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot (but not smoking), carefully add the pork tenderloin. Sear it on all sides until it’s gorgeously golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Trust me, that golden crust is key!
4. While the pork is busy getting its tan, let’s whip up the cranberry-apple sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, diced apple, apple juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, thyme, and balsamic vinegar. Stir it all together until well combined—this will give you a vibrant and flavorful sauce.
5. Once the pork is seared, pour the cranberry-apple mixture around the pork in the skillet. Let all that goodness mingle!
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
7. Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Finally, slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with that delicious cranberry-apple sauce spooned generously over the top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that beautiful finish. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This dish is incredibly versatile, so feel free to mix it up! Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. If you’re looking to amp up the flavors, add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the cranberry-apple sauce for a delightful crunch!
If you’re pressed for time, you can also prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it on the stovetop while the pork is cooking. And for those of you who like it spicy, a pinch of cayenne pepper in the sauce will bring a whole new level of excitement!
I hope you give this **Cranberry Apple Pork Tenderloin** a try! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Get ready to savor the deliciousness and perhaps create some beautiful memories of your own around the dinner table! Happy cooking!
