| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 495 | 35g | 8g | 4g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 2g | 40g | 0.4g |
Why I Love Greek Pork with Lemon and Olive Oil Marinade
The inspiration for the Pork with Lemon and Olive Oil Marininade, came from an unexpected blend of my Montana roots and fascination for global cuisine. One of my favorite things about culinary adventures is the way they can unexpectedly transport us to different parts of the world. And this is precisely the kind of journey you’ll take with each bite of this delectable dish!
A Touch of Greek Sunshine
I’ve always been drawn to the simplicity, yet extraordinary depth of flavors in Mediterranean cuisine. The Greeks, in particular, have a knack for bringing together simple ingredients to create mouthwatering masterpieces. Pork with Lemon and Olive Oil Marinade pays homage to these Grecian techniques. It bears a striking resemblance to the traditional “Lemonato” – a dish brimming with the bright essence of lemons and the mellow, rich notes of olive oil. Linking such simplicity back to my heritage, it echoes the pure, unfettered flavors of Montana’s rustic cuisine.
The Flavors and Pairing Suggestions
The harmonious blend of lemon and olive oil in this recipe strikes a delicate balance of acidity and richness, permeating the pork to create flavorsome tender morsels. The presence of dried oregano infuses a pleasant earthiness, further accentuated by garlic’s bold undertones. This dish has a chameleon-like versatility, making it just as suitable for a relaxed family BBQ as it is for an upscale dinner party.
If you’re looking to create a memorable meal, Pork with Lemon and Olive Oil Marinade pairs perfectly with a crisp Greek salad, or perhaps a side of Tzatziki and warm pita as a nod to its Mediterranean origins. If you’re more inclined to maintain the Montana theme, why not consider a side of sweet corn or a hearty potato salad?
The inspiration for this dish doesn’t stop at the Grecian shores. My culinary curiosity led me to celebrity chef and author, Diane Kochilas. Known for her passion for Greek cooking, she encapsulates the heart and soul of the Mediterranean in each recipe – a philosophy that resonates with me and reflected in this Greek-inspired pork dish.
Embarking on this adventure of unifying contrasting cuisine characteristics has undoubtedly enriched my cooking repertoire. The Pork with Lemon and Olive Oil Marinade admirably reflects this fusion, blending Greek tradition with a touch of Montana wilderness. I invite you to experience this journey of flavors and hope it becomes a much-relished staple in your culinary creations as it has in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of pork tenderloin
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of dried oregano
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Parsley leaves for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
Method
Step One
Start off by making the marinade. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are well combined.
Step Two
Place the pork tenderloin in a large ziplock bag or a deep dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is fully covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let the pork marinate for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight.
Step Three
When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to a medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Reserve the marinade for basting.
Step Four
Place the pork on the grill or in the oven. Cook it for about 20-25 minutes, turning it occasionally and basting it with the reserved marinade. The pork is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
Step Five
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes the pork more tender and juicy.
Step Six
Slice the pork into thin slices. Garnish with parsley leaves and lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your Pork with Lemon and Olive Oil Marinade!
