Cranberry Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary

Pork tenderloin is glazed with cranberry sauce

Cranberry Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary was my immediate choice when I received an invitation to my friend’s potluck dinner party. While traditional casseroles crossed my mind, I knew this elegant dish would be a crowd-pleaser.

Cranberry pork tenderloin recipe

Cranberry pork tenderloin with rosemary is a flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of pork with the tartness of cranberries and the aromatic quality of rosemary.

Cranberry pork tenderloin, garnished with rosemary
Cranberry sauce with pork tenderloin

This cranberry pork tenderloin is a protein-packed delight. The tenderness of pork tenderloin and cranberry sauce‘s tangy flavor harmonizes beautifully. Besides, I can wrap the glazed pork tightly in foil, pop it into a container, and bring it along wherever the party takes us.

This dish is particularly popular during the holiday season due to its festive flavors and appealing presentation. This is how to make Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary:

Pork tenderloin is glazed with cranberry sauce

Cranberry Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary

A festive easy main dish pairs the tender, lean cut of pork with the festive combination of fresh herbs and bright cranberries.
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Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, European
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce homemade or store-bought
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
  • In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary. This will be your glaze.
  • Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until it develops a golden-brown crust.
  • Brush the prepared cranberry glaze over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly.
  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). While roasting, baste the pork with the glaze every 7-10 minutes to build up a delicious layer of flavor.
  • Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal
Keyword baking recipes, Christmas recipe, holiday recipe, pork tenderloin
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If your dish is:

  1. Too Sweet:
    • Add balsamic vinegar
    • Incorporate more fresh herbs
    • Serve with acidic accompaniments
  2. Too Dry:
    • Slice thinner
    • Serve with additional warm glaze
    • Present with a complementary sauce

Sauce Variations

1. Cranberry-Balsamic Sauce: Fresh cranberries, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and a touch of orange and rosemary make this dish slightly tart and sweet. The sauce pairs perfectly with pork, making it great for both everyday meals and holiday gatherings.

2. Cranberry Orange Galze: This version adds orange juice and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy twist.

3. Rosemary-Infused Cranberry Sauce: Cranberry sauce infused with rosemary, onions, and red wine. It’s an elegant but easy-to-make dish.

4. Cranberry Sauce Alternatives:

  • Pomegranate: Offers similar tartness with an exotic appeal
  • Cherries: Provides deeper, richer fruit notes
  • Blackberries: Adds complexity with forest fruit undertones

Pairing suggestions

1. Drinks

  • Red Wine: A light or medium-bodied red, like Pinot Noir or Merlot, pairs well with pork and cranberry.
  • White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc is also a great choice.
  • Sparkling Cider: Non-alcoholic sparkling cider adds a festive touch and matches the dish’s sweetness.
  • Herbal Tea: Chamomile or mint tea offers a warm, soothing option alongside the meal.

2. Side Dishes

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, these are a perfect match for the tart cranberry sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add color and nutrition.
  • Green Beans: Lightly sautéed or steamed, green beans bring a fresh crunch that balances the richness of pork.
  • Cauliflower Mash: A creamy, low-carb option similar to mashed potatoes.
  • Stuffing: Savory and herb-filled stuffing, especially with rosemary, adds holiday flavor.

3. Salads

  • Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette refreshes the palate.
  • Cranberry Spinach Salad: Adds a nice touch by incorporating cranberries, tying in with the main dish.

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