Zesty Cuban-Style Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this Zesty Cuban-Style Grilled Pork Tenderloin. This dish features a bright citrus marinade infused with fresh cilantro, earthy cumin, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Perfectly grilled, the tenderloin becomes juicy and flavorful, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any meal. At just 3 points per 3 oz serving, it’s a delicious and healthy option for your family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The same marinade works beautifully with chicken, offering versatility in your culinary adventures.
6
Servings
60
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
orange juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
grapefruit juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
cilantro
2 tablespoons (chopped)
cumin
1 teaspoon (ground)
oregano
1 teaspoon (dried)
garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon
red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon
pork tenderloin
1 1/2 lbs (trimmed)
cooking spray
as needed
Instructions
1
In a gallon-sized zip-top bag, combine the orange juice, grapefruit juice, chopped cilantro, cumin, dried oregano, chopped garlic, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
2
Add the pork tenderloin to the marinade, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
3
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat, aiming for around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Before grilling, lightly spray the grates with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4
Remove the pork tenderloin from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drain, but do not scrape off the marinade solids.
5
Place the tenderloin directly on the grill grate, cover the grill, and cook for approximately 20 to 27 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is browned and a meat thermometer reads 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
6
Once cooked, transfer the pork to a carving board and let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes to retain its juices.
7
Slice the pork tenderloin on a slight diagonal and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Nutrition Information
1.7 g
Fat
1.7 g
Carbs
8.7 g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cuban-Style Grilled Pork Tenderloin?
It is a vibrant pork dish featuring a bright citrus marinade infused with fresh cilantro, earthy cumin, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.
How many Weight Watchers points is a serving?
This recipe is 3 points per 3 oz serving.
Can I use this marinade for other proteins?
Yes, the same marinade works beautifully with chicken.
What citrus juices are used in the marinade?
The marinade uses freshly squeezed orange juice and grapefruit juice.
How long should I marinate the pork?
You should marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
What is the recommended grill temperature?
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat, aiming for around 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do I prevent the pork from sticking to the grill?
Lightly spray the grill grates with cooking spray before placing the meat on the grill.
Should I remove the marinade solids before grilling?
No, while you should allow excess liquid to drain, do not scrape off the marinade solids.
What internal temperature should the pork reach?
The pork tenderloin should reach a meat thermometer reading of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to grill the pork tenderloin?
It takes approximately 20 to 27 minutes, turning occasionally.
Why should I let the pork rest after cooking?
Resting the pork for 3 to 5 minutes allows it to retain its juices before carving.
How should the pork be sliced for serving?
The pork tenderloin should be sliced on a slight diagonal and served immediately.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
How many calories are in a single serving?
There are 60 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this dish?
Each serving contains 1.7 g of fat.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 8.7 g of protein.
What spices are used in the Cuban-style marinade?
The marinade includes ground cumin, dried oregano, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes.
How much garlic is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 chopped garlic cloves.
What type of salt is used?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt.
How much red pepper flakes should be added for spice?
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
What is the weight of the pork tenderloin used?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 lbs of trimmed pork tenderloin.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, each serving contains only 1.7 g of carbohydrates.
What equipment is needed for marinating?
A gallon-sized zip-top bag is recommended for combining ingredients and marinating the meat.
How much cilantro is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro.
Is the orange juice store-bought or fresh?
The recipe recommends 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Is the grapefruit juice freshly squeezed?
Yes, it calls for 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice.
What category of food does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized under Pork.
Is this a quick dinner option?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick dinner and a healthy recipe.
What are the primary flavor profiles of this dish?
The flavor profile is zesty and citrusy with earthy and spicy undertones.
How often should I turn the pork while grilling?
You should turn the pork occasionally throughout the 20 to 27 minute cooking time.