Pork Tenderloin Picante(Low-Fat Recipe; Great Flavor)
Juicy pork tenderloin cooked with spicy picante sauce and garlic, offering bold flavors perfect for a quick, healthy meal suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tie the pork tenderloins with butcher's twine or secure with toothpicks to hold their shape.
- Sprinkle garlic powder or crushed fresh garlic evenly over the tenderloins.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the tenderloins on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the small jar of picante sauce over the tenderloins in the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the pork is cooked through.
- Remove the twine or toothpicks, slice, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork tenderloins in the picante sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer fresh garlic, use about 3 cloves, minced. You can also substitute the pork with chicken breast for a lighter option. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat to ensure it stays juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Tenderloin Picante sliced over a bed of rice or with warm tortillas for a fulfilling meal. Pair it with a side of Frijoles Borrachos(Drunken Beans) or a fresh salad for a balanced dish. This recipe also complements well with Crazy Corn Nachos for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a skillet with a splash of water or broth over medium heat, covering to retain moisture. This helps to keep the pork tender and prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Tenderloin Picante(Low-Fat Recipe; Great Flavor) contains roughly 174 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of sauce instead of picante?
Yes, you can substitute picante sauce with salsa verde or a homemade tomato-based sauce. Just ensure the alternative sauce has a similar consistency to maintain the dish's flavor profile.
How do I know when the pork is cooked through?
The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the tenderloin. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with Mexican recipes like cilantro-lime rice or a fresh corn salad. A dollop of sour cream on top enhances the flavors as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).