Save A succulent pork tenderloin coated in a savory blend of fresh thyme and crunchy pecans, then roasted to perfection. This simple yet elegant skillet dish makes a comforting centerpiece for cozy dinners.
This recipe is one of my go-to dishes for when I want a quick but impressive meal. The combination of thyme and pecans adds such a delightful crunch and aroma that my family always asks for seconds.
Ingredients
- Pork: 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 1.25 lbs / 500 600 g) trimmed
- Crust: 1 cup pecans finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried thyme), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Binding: 1 large egg, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- For Searing: 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Pork:
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season all over with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mix Crust:
- In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pecans, thyme, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare Binding:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with Dijon mustard.
- Coat Pork:
- Brush the pork tenderloin with the egg mustard mixture coating all sides evenly.
- Apply Crust:
- Press the tenderloin firmly into the pecan thyme mixture turning to coat all sides.
- Sear Pork:
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden about 2 3 minutes per side.
- Roast:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15 18 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest:
- Remove from oven tent loosely with foil and let rest 5 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice into medallions and serve warm.
Pin it Cooking this recipe brings my family together, with everyone eager to share stories around the dinner table as we enjoy the comforting flavors.
Preparation Tips
Make sure to finely chop the pecans to help the crust stick better. Also, use a meat thermometer to check for the perfect doneness to keep the pork juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork medallions alongside roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain texture.
Pin it This dish effortlessly combines elegance and comfort, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite with your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best way to achieve a crunchy crust?
Coat the tenderloin evenly with the egg and mustard mixture, then press it firmly into the pecan-thyme blend. Searing on all sides before roasting locks in the crust and adds a rich golden color.
- → Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives, providing a different but equally nutty crunch.
- → How do I ensure the pork stays juicy?
Let the pork rest loosely covered with foil for 5-10 minutes after roasting; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- → What side dishes complement this pork tenderloin?
Roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp apple cider pair beautifully to balance the rich flavors.
- → Is the thyme fresh or dried better for this dish?
Fresh thyme adds a bright herbal note, but dried thyme can be used if fresh isn’t available, adjusting quantity accordingly.