Spice-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with a Mediterranean Grain Salad
Spice-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with a Mediterranean Grain Salad is a flavorful Continental Desserts & Baking dish prepared with quality ingredients. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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Easy Prep ≤ 4 steps · Fast & beginner friendly
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Moderate 5–8 steps · Everyday home cooking
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Expert ≥ 9 steps · Multi-step advanced prep
Ingredients Required
Tap or click any ingredient to check off during cookingStep-by-Step Cooking Method
Follow numbered steps for authentic taste and perfectionPreheat oven to 375°F.
Season pork all over with 1 tsp. salt.
Heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large, heavy, ovenproof skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high.
Sear pork, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 7 minutes.
Transfer skillet to oven and roast, flipping pork halfway through, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of meat registers 145°F for medium/medium-rare, 10–12 minutes.
Transfer pork to a cutting board (reserve skillet if you're going for Option 3) and let rest at least 5 minutes.
Slice into medallions.
Meanwhile, toss grains with remaining 2 Tbsp. oil and 3/4 tsp. salt in a large bowl.
Fold in cucumbers and tomatoes, or serve them alongside.
Before searing pork, add cumin, brown sugar, and 1 tsp. pepper to 1 tsp. salt.
Rub all over pork, then follow cooking directions above.
Fold lemon juice and remaining 1/4 tsp. pepper into grain salad.
Top salad with feta before serving.
After searing pork, drain excess fat from skillet and heat over medium.
Add harissa and cook, stirring constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon, until bubbling and slightly browned, about 30 seconds.
Pour in wine or broth, increase heat to high, and cook, scraping up browned bits, until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
Remove skillet from heat and add butter, one piece at a time, whisking to incorporate after each addition until emulsified.
Stir in lemon juice, if using (we especially like it with the chicken broth-based sauce); season with salt and pepper.
Fold herbs and olives into grain salad.
Divide pork and salad among plates and serve sauce alongside.
Chef's Secret Tips & Serving Pairings
- Serve hot and fresh as a wholesome non-vegetarian meal.
- Pairs excellently with steamed rice, flatbreads, or fresh salad garnish.