This easy peach grilled pork tenderloin is a summer treat! The tender pork is juicy and sweetened with fresh peaches, making each bite flavorful and fun.
Grilling this dish is a breeze and perfect for a sunny day. I love serving it with a side salad for a light meal. Plus, who can resist that yummy peach glaze? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly, making it perfect for grilling. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you can substitute it with chicken breast, though cooking times will vary.
Peaches: Fresh peaches provide natural sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) or even apricots for a similar flavor.
Orange and Lime Juice: These add brightness. If you don’t have fresh citrus, bottled juice can work, but fresh is always best for flavor. You could also try lemon juice for a different twist.
Honey: This sweetener balances the tartness of the sauce. Maple syrup can be a great substitution if you want a different sweetness.
How Can I Grill the Pork Tenderloin Perfectly?
Grilling pork tenderloin can be tricky, but with a little attention, you can achieve great results. First, make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat. This helps sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess drip off to avoid flare-ups.
- Place the tenderloins on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C). This ensures juicy and safe pork.
- Brush on the reserved peach sauce in the last few minutes of grilling to add flavor and moisture.
Letting the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling helps retain its juices, making it tender and tasty!
Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 to 1.5 lbs each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Peach Marinade:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional for a slight kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 small chopped habanero (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Slices of orange and lime
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the pork (you can marinate for up to 3 hours for more flavor). Grilling will take about 15 minutes. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 35 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Sauce & Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine the diced peaches, orange juice, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), chili flakes or chopped habanero (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Set aside about half of this mixture for use as a glaze later.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork tenderloins in a large resealable bag or container. Pour the remaining peach marinade over the pork. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, for the best flavor. Don’t forget to flip the bag occasionally to ensure the pork is evenly coated!
3. Preheat the Grill:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to get it nice and hot. This helps create a great sear on the pork.
4. Grill the Pork:
When ready to grill, remove the pork from the marinade, discarding the marinade used for soaking. Place the tenderloins on the grill, cooking for about 12-15 minutes total. Turn occasionally to get those beautiful grill marks and to cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Baste with Peach Sauce:
During the last 4-5 minutes of grilling, brush the reserved peach sauce generously on the pork. This will create a delicious glaze. Turn the pork frequently during this time to prevent burning the sugars in the sauce.
6. Rest and Slice:
Once cooked, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to keep it juicy. After resting, slice the tenderloins into medallions for serving.
7. Serve:
Arrange the sliced pork on a serving platter. Drizzle some extra peach glaze over the top for added flavor. Garnish beautifully with freshly chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and slices of orange and lime for that refreshing touch.
Enjoy this juicy, sweet, and slightly spicy peach-glazed pork tenderloin, perfect for summer grilling!
FAQ for Easy Peach Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use Frozen Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you can use frozen pork tenderloin! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. This helps to ensure even flavor absorption and safe cooking.
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Peaches?
No worries! If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can substitute with canned peaches in juice or even apricots for a similar flavor profile. Just make sure to drain them if using canned, and you can blend them directly into the marinade!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or sauté in a pan to maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I Grill This in the Oven or a Grill Pan Instead?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat, or roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Just be sure to keep an eye on it for even cooking!
