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Flavorful Smoky Maple Pork Tenderloin Recipe with Zesty Charred Corn Salsa for Easy Weeknight Dinners

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A quick and easy weeknight meal featuring juicy pork tenderloin glazed with smoky maple and served with a bright, slightly spicy charred corn salsa.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon for cooking
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
  2. Pat pork tenderloin dry and place in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over pork and coat evenly. Let marinate at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours refrigerated.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  4. Transfer charred corn to a bowl. Add red onion, jalapeño (if using), cherry tomatoes, lime juice, and cilantro. Toss gently. Add honey if desired to balance acidity.
  5. Wipe skillet clean and heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer seared pork to a baking sheet or oven-safe pan and roast for 12-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest 5 minutes.
  7. Slice pork into 1/2-inch medallions and serve with a generous scoop of charred corn salsa.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145°F for juicy results. Rest pork for 5 minutes before slicing. Char corn carefully to avoid burning. Marinate pork up to 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor. For dairy-free or vegan option, replace pork with grilled tofu or mushrooms.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, smoky maple, charred corn salsa, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, gluten-free, quick meal

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