Coriander Crusted Pork Tenderloin Recipe

I absolutely love this pork tenderloin recipe because it combines the zesty flavors of lime and garlic with a perfectly seared and juicy cut of meat, making it a delicious and satisfying dish that’s super easy to prepare. Plus, the fresh cilantro garnish adds a pop of color and brightness that makes me feel like a culinary pro every time I serve it.

I craft delicious, nourishing foods, and my Coriander Crusted Pork Tenderloin is no exception. It has 2 tablespoons of ground coriander in it—not to mention a scant hint of fresh lime zest—and when I taste it, the flavor hardly seems contained to one dish.

That could be because the pork was cooked sous vide, which to my unrefined senses is something like heating a dish in a wood-fired oven. Neither method delivers a blah-tasting meal.

Ingredients

• Ground Coriander: Adds a warm, citrusy flavor; rich in antioxidants.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats; enhances flavors and moistens.
• Garlic: Boosts immune function; intense, savory aroma.
• Lime Juice: Bright, tangy; vitamin C-rich, aids digestion.
• Pork Tenderloin: Lean protein source; tender and juicy.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Your oven should be at 400°F (200°C) when you are ready to bake.

2. Make the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.

3. In a tiny bowl, combine the ground coriander, salt, and pepper.

4. Evenly coat the pork tenderloin all over with the spice mixture.

5. In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

7. Set the pork tenderloin in the skillet and sear each side for 2-3 minutes, until browned.

8. Squeeze the juice of the lime over the pork and dust it with the zest.

9. Move the skillet to the oven that has been preheated and roast the pork in it for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).

10. Allow the pork to sit for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing. If desired, garnish the sliced meat with fresh, chopped cilantro. Serve it up and dig in!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Paper towels
3. Small bowl
4. Measuring spoons
5. Oven-safe skillet
6. Tongs or spatula
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
9. Zester or grater
10. Citrus juicer (optional)

FAQ

• Can I use another cut of pork?Pork loin is fine to use; it just requires some adjustment in cooking time because it is thicker.
• Is there a substitute for fresh lime juice?Lemon juice can be used in the same amount if you don’t have any lime.
• Can this recipe be made ahead of time?The pork can be marinated for 24 hours at the most prior to cooking, though it is preferable to cook the meat just after marinating.
• How should I store leftovers?Leftover pork may be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. You may also freeze leftover pork for longer storage.
• Can I grill the pork tenderloin instead of roasting it?Indeed, grilling is an excellent substitute. Grill at medium heat until the pork attains an internal temperature of 145°F.
• What side dishes pair well with this dish?This selection complements well roasted root vegetables, a brisk salad, or a rice pilaf.

Substitutions and Variations

Ground coriander can be substituted with 2 tablespoons of ground cumin. While the flavor will be different, it will work in a pinch (and add an interesting twist!).
Salt: Use 1 teaspoon of sea salt or kosher salt to deliver a similar seasoning effect.
Freshly ground black pepper: Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon white pepper for a milder flavor.
Avocado oil: Substitute with 1 tablespoon of olive or canola oil for a neutral flavor.
Garlic: Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for fresh garlic.

Pro Tips

1. Rest the Pork Before Slicing Allowing the pork to rest for 5 minutes after cooking ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. Resist the urge to cut it immediately.

2. Use a Meat Thermometer For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches exactly 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork is cooked perfectly without being overdone.

3. Optimize Searing Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the pork tenderloin. A hot skillet will help achieve a nice crust, which will lock in the moisture and flavor.

4. Enhance Flavor with Marinade For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork in the lime juice, zest, and minced garlic mixture for at least an hour before cooking. This can infuse the meat with extra citrusy goodness.

5. Experiment with Garnishes While cilantro is suggested, you can also try garnishing the dish with thinly sliced scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor variation.