A month or so ago I treated myself to a cookbook that I’ve wanted for quite sometime – the “other” Sopranos cookbook. It’s full of great recipes, stories, tips and tricks from my favorite Italian mafioso family. I really love the first one, and figured the second rendition had to be just as good.
The first recipe I tried was this peppered pork tenderloin, and I was completely blown away. If you’ve been visiting the site regularly, you know that I make many different versions of pork tenderloin. But, the simplicity of this one is just wonderful. A quick marinade made up of basic ingredients, then it’s tossed on the grill to cook. It doesn’t have a sauce, or anything like that – which really allows the grilled pork flavor to shine. This was the first meal we enjoyed outside this year, so it made it all the more special.
Between the two tenderloins I cooked that night, there was just enough leftover for Cuban paninis the following night. The pork was perfect for the sandwiches, as it doesn’t have any other overpowering flavors. I love the meals that I can turn into something completely different the next night!
So, if you’re looking for something quick and easy…as well as delicious, add this one to the menu soon. We all loved it, and I’ve already made it twice since then!
Peppered Pork Tenderloin
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tsp kosher salt
2 pork tenderloins (about 2 pounds)
1 1/2 Tbsp coarsely cracked black pepper
In a small bowl, stir together the oil, mustard, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and salt. Brush the mixture over the pork. Sprinkle the tenderloins on all sides with the black pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook, for 15 minutes up to 4 hours.
Prepare a medium-hot charcoal fire or preheat a gas grill or the broiler. Grill or broil the pork, turning it with tongs so that it is browned on all sides and the meat reads about 155 degrees – about 15 to 20 minutes.
Transfer the pork to a cutting board and tent with foil. Let rest about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Source: adapted from Entertaining with the Sopranos
