South Seas Pork Tenderloin
A vibrant South Seas-inspired pork tenderloin marinated in orange juice, teriyaki, and honey, then grilled to perfection for a sweet and savory flavor profile perfect for summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim fat from the pork tenderloin.
- Combine pork, orange juice, teriyaki sauce, honey, pepper, crushed garlic, and sliced ginger in a ziploc bag.
- Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the grill and place the pork on the rack.
- Grill the pork for 12 minutes, turning frequently and basting with the marinade.
- Grill pineapple and pork for an additional 8 minutes, turning and basting.
- Serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a hint of sesame oil to the marinade. If you don't have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be a substitute; use about 1/4 teaspoon. Make sure to keep the grill well-oiled to prevent sticking. Pair it with the sweet and savory notes of Duck Gumbo for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled pork tenderloin sliced, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. It pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or Never Enough Salad for a refreshing crunch. For an added tropical touch, consider serving with grilled pineapple slices to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Seas Pork Tenderloin contains roughly 588 calories, with 25g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (273% of the Daily Value), iron (96% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while pork tenderloin is ideal, chicken breast or even tofu can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken may take longer to cook, while tofu should be grilled until golden and heated through.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
The ideal internal temperature for pork tenderloin is 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Can I marinate the pork for less time?
While marinating for 8 hours or overnight yields the best flavor, you can marinate for as little as 30 minutes in the refrigerator. However, the flavor may not penetrate as deeply into the meat.
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).