Caribbean Spiced Pork Tenderloin with Chunky Avocado-Pineapple Salsa
This vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish features succulent pork tenderloin coated in a sweet and aromatic spice rub, perfectly complemented by a refreshing chunky avocado-pineapple salsa. The combination of juicy pineapple and creamy avocado creates a tropical explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready to impress your family and friends? Dive into this delicious dish that celebrates the essence of Caribbean cuisine!
N/A
Servings
225
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
pork tenderloin
2 (12 ounces each, trimmed)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for coating)
pineapple in juice
1 can (8 ounces) (drained and pineapple chopped)
scallions
2 (thinly sliced)
avocado
1 (diced)
light brown sugar
2 tablespoons (for spice rub)
coarse salt
2 teaspoons (for spice rub)
ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon (for spice rub)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (for spice rub)
ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon (for spice rub)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (for spice rub)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the spice rub. In a small mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, coarse salt, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground allspice, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
2
Preheat your broiler, positioning the rack about 4 inches from the heat source.
3
Line a broiler pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the pork tenderloins on the lined pan and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4
Generously apply the spice rub all over the pork, pressing it in to create a flavorful crust.
5
Broil the pork, turning occasionally for even cooking, for about 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 150°F.
6
While the pork is broiling, prepare the avocado-pineapple salsa. Start by draining the juice from the can of pineapple into a small bowl.
7
Finely chop the drained pineapple and add it to the bowl with the reserved juice. Stir in the thinly sliced scallions and diced avocado.
8
Season the salsa mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
9
Once the pork is finished cooking, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Serve the sliced pork with a generous topping of avocado-pineapple salsa.
10
For storing leftovers, line a bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the salsa, and then cover with an additional piece of plastic wrap before refrigerating.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
15g
Carbs
18.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caribbean Spiced Pork Tenderloin with Chunky Avocado-Pineapple Salsa?
It is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish featuring succulent pork tenderloin coated in a sweet and aromatic spice rub, served with a refreshing salsa made from avocado and pineapple.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 11 ingredients in total.
What is the main protein used in this dish?
The main protein is pork tenderloin, specifically two pieces weighing approximately 12 ounces each.
What spices are included in the Caribbean spice rub?
The spice rub includes ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground allspice, and black pepper, along with light brown sugar and coarse salt.
How many calories are in a serving of this pork tenderloin?
There are 225 calories per serving.
What is the nutritional breakdown for fat and protein?
Each serving contains 10g of fat and 18.75g of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 15g of carbohydrates per serving.
How should the pork be cooked?
The pork should be broiled on a lined broiler pan, positioned about 4 inches from the heat source.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the pork?
The pork is finished cooking when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 150°F.
How long does it take to broil the pork tenderloin?
It typically takes about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
What type of pineapple should be used for the salsa?
Use one 8-ounce can of pineapple in juice, ensuring you drain and chop the fruit while reserving the juice.
What are the ingredients for the avocado-pineapple salsa?
The salsa consists of drained and chopped pineapple, reserved pineapple juice, thinly sliced scallions, and diced avocado.
How do you prepare the spice rub?
In a small mixing bowl, combine light brown sugar, coarse salt, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground allspice, and pepper, and mix well.
Should the pork rest after cooking?
Yes, let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing to ensure it stays juicy.
What is the best way to slice the pork?
The pork should be sliced thinly against the grain.
How do I prevent the avocado from mashing in the salsa?
Toss the salsa mixture gently when combining the ingredients to keep the avocado chunks intact.
What is the recommended storage method for leftovers?
Line a bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the salsa, then cover with another piece of wrap and refrigerate.
Does this recipe use any oil?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of olive oil is used to coat the pork before applying the spice rub.
What type of salt is best for the spice rub?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of coarse salt.
Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is described as an easy recipe that is ideal for weeknights or special occasions.
What are some common tags associated with this dish?
Common tags include Caribbean, pork, tenderloin, salsa, avocado, pineapple, spice rub, and tropical.
How many scallions are needed for the salsa?
You will need 2 scallions, thinly sliced.
Does the spice rub contain sugar?
Yes, it contains 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar for a sweet and aromatic flavor.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While the recipe specifies canned pineapple in juice, you could use fresh pineapple and a bit of pineapple juice as a substitute.
How do you prepare the broiler pan?
Line the broiler pan with aluminum foil to make the cleanup process easier.
What gives the dish its tropical flavor?
The combination of juicy pineapple, creamy avocado, and aromatic Caribbean spices like allspice and cinnamon creates the tropical flavor profile.
What should I do with the spice rub?
Generously apply it all over the pork and press it in to create a flavorful crust.
Is there any fiber or sugar information available?
No, the specific fiber, sugar, sodium, and cholesterol values are not provided in the nutritional data.
How much ground cumin is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of ground cumin.
Should the salsa be seasoned?
Yes, season the salsa mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.