Pork tenderloin is a fantastic option for a flavorful and relatively lean protein, often overshadowed by chicken. But just like chicken, pork tenderloin is incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. If you’re looking to create a memorable meal, choosing the right accompaniments is key. Let’s explore some of the best Side Dishes To Serve With Pork Tenderloin, guaranteed to make this often-overlooked main dish a star.
Delicious Side Dishes to Complement Pork Tenderloin
From roasted vegetables to fresh salads and creamy polenta, the possibilities are endless. Here are ten top-rated side dishes that perfectly complement pork tenderloin, offering a variety of flavors and textures to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
1. Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes
For a simple yet flavorful side, Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes are an excellent choice. These small potatoes become wonderfully tender on the inside and delightfully crispy on the outside in just 15 to 20 minutes in the oven. The garlic-parmesan topping adds a savory and aromatic crust that pairs beautifully with pork.
2. Chopped Brussels Sprout Salad
If you’re seeking a lighter and crunchier side, the Chopped Brussels Sprout Salad is a refreshing option. This salad uses raw Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced to resemble cabbage, offering a unique texture and slightly nutty flavor. The addition of Gala apples, almonds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds provides extra crunch and sweetness, making it a vibrant and healthy accompaniment.
3. Merritt’s Butternut Squash Gratin
For a richer and more decadent side dish, Merritt’s Butternut Squash Gratin is a standout. This gratin features tender butternut squash topped with a flavorful breadcrumb mixture. Rosemary, thyme, Gruyere, and Cheddar cheese are tossed with bread crumbs to create a savory and cheesy crust that perfectly complements the sweetness of the squash and the savory notes of pork tenderloin.
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4. Fig and Arugula Salad
To add a touch of elegance and peppery zest to your meal, consider serving a Fig and Arugula Salad. The peppery bite of arugula and the sweetness of ripe figs create a delightful flavor contrast. This salad’s vibrant flavors are especially wonderful for cutting through the richness of pork, and it can even revitalize leftover pork tenderloin.
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5. Chef John’s Perfect Polenta
For a creamy and comforting side, Chef John’s Perfect Polenta is an excellent choice. Polenta, made from coarsely ground cornmeal, provides a smooth and versatile base. As Chef John notes, it’s “a perfect base for any kind of saucy meat,” making it ideal for soaking up any pan juices from your pork tenderloin. Consider serving it alongside Italian Pork Tenderloin or Porcini Pork Tenderloin for a cohesive Italian-inspired meal.
6. Butternut Farro Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette
For a hearty and flavorful grain-based side, the Butternut Farro Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette is a fantastic option. This salad combines nutty farro with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and toasted pecans. The tangy blood orange vinaigrette ties all the elements together, creating a complex and satisfying side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats like pork tenderloin.
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7. Roasted Garlic Cauliflower
Simple yet incredibly versatile, Roasted Garlic Cauliflower is a healthy and adaptable side dish. Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and nutty flavor, enhanced by the addition of garlic. This side is a true chameleon; you can easily customize it with different spices and herbs to complement your pork tenderloin, or enjoy it in its simple, delicious form.
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8. Lemon Pea Salad
For a bright and fresh side that requires minimal effort, Lemon Pea Salad is a perfect choice. This simple salad highlights the natural sweetness of uncooked peas, enhanced with a bright lemon dressing. Reviewers rave about its simplicity and fresh flavor, making it an ideal side when you want something quick, easy, and delicious.
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9. Heirloom Tomato Salad with Rosemary
Capture the flavors of summer with Heirloom Tomato Salad with Rosemary. Juicy heirloom tomatoes are combined with fresh rosemary to create a vibrant and aromatic salad. As suggested by a reviewer, it’s especially delicious when served with grilled pork tenderloin, creating a perfect summer meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
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10. Braised Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
For a more indulgent vegetable side, Braised Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are a winner. The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts is beautifully balanced by buttery richness and smoky bacon. This side dish adds a touch of decadence to leaner pork tenderloin, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Conclusion
Pork tenderloin is a versatile and delicious protein that deserves a regular spot on your dinner table. By pairing it with any of these fantastic side dishes, you can create a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for roasted vegetables, fresh salads, creamy grains, or something a little more indulgent, there’s a perfect side dish here to elevate your pork tenderloin dinner.
