When it comes to cooking a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal, few combinations are as timeless and comforting as pork and potatoes.

This classic duo can be prepared in numerous ways, but one particularly delicious and flavorful option is to infuse the pork and potatoes with fresh herbs. In this article, we will explore a simple yet mouthwatering recipe for herbed pork and potatoes that will surely delight your taste buds.

The Ingredients You Will Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first gather the necessary ingredients. For this herbed pork and potatoes recipe, you will need:.

1. Pork Tenderloin

The star of this dish is, of course, the pork tenderloin. Look for a high-quality cut with a rich marbling of fat, as it will ensure tenderness and flavor.

Aim for around 1.5 to 2 pounds of pork tenderloin, which should serve approximately four to six people.

2. Potatoes

Next, you’ll need potatoes to accompany the pork. Yukon gold potatoes work exceptionally well, but any variety of potatoes can be used.

Plan on using about 2 pounds of potatoes, which will yield enough for everyone to enjoy alongside the succulent pork.

3. Fresh Herbs

The key to adding a burst of flavor to this dish lies in using fresh herbs. Opt for a combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage. The aromatic notes and earthy flavors of these herbs complement the pork and potatoes perfectly.

4. Garlic

No savory dish is complete without the addition of garlic. You’ll need a few cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced or crushed, to infuse the dish with its distinctive pungency.

5. Olive Oil

Olive oil will serve as the base for your herb marinade and will help keep the pork and potatoes moist during cooking. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

6. Salt and Pepper

Of course, every dish needs some salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. Season the pork and potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

7. Optional: Lemon Zest

If you’re looking to add a touch of brightness to this dish, consider incorporating some lemon zest. The citrusy essence will elevate the flavors and provide a pleasant contrast to the richness of the pork and potatoes.

The Preparation Method

Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step preparation method:.

1. Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the pork tenderloin and trim off any excess fat or silver skin. Season it generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring all sides are well coated.

2. Creating the Herb Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped herbs, and olive oil to create a fragrant herb marinade. If you’ve opted to use lemon zest, add it to the marinade as well. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Related Article Roasted Pork and Potatoes

3. Marinating the Pork

Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the herb marinade over the pork and massage it gently to ensure the meat is evenly coated.

Allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for even better results, refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors intensify.

4. Preparing the Potatoes

While the pork is marinating, it’s time to prepare the potatoes. Scrub the potatoes clean and cut them into bite-sized cubes or wedges, depending on your preference.

Ensure that the potato pieces are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

5. Tossing the Potatoes in the Herb Marinade

Transfer the cut potatoes to a large mixing bowl and drizzle them with a few tablespoons of the herb marinade. Toss the potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the fragrant mixture.

6. Roasting the Pork and Potatoes

Now it’s time to bring the pork and potatoes together and roast them to perfection. Place the marinated pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Surround the pork with the coated potatoes, arranging them in a single layer.

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). The potatoes should turn golden brown and become crisp on the edges.

7. Resting and Slicing the Pork

Once the pork reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.

After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions, revealing its juicy and perfectly cooked interior.

8. Serving and Enjoying the Herbed Pork and Potatoes

Arrange the succulent pork medallions on a serving platter, surrounded by the golden, herb-infused potatoes. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for an extra touch of visual appeal.

Serve hot and savor every delicious bite.

Conclusion

With its aromatic herbs, tender pork, and perfectly roasted potatoes, this herbed pork and potatoes recipe is a true winner.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty home-cooked meal, this dish will impress both your taste buds and your guests. So, don your apron, gather the ingredients, and let the delightful aromas fill your kitchen as you embark on a culinary adventure that is both tasty and satisfying.