Cilantro Lime Marinated Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin marinated with honey and lime and garnished with fresh cilantro for a tangy and sweet flavor with a zesty kick.

This Cilantro Lime Marinated Pork Tenderloin combines tangy, sweet, and savory flavors with a zesty kick from lime and aromatic cilantro. Honey and salt balance the marinade, while garlic powder adds depth. Grilled to a juicy, tender finish with a caramelized crust, the pork is complemented by the fresh, herbaceous cilantro, tying all the flavors together. This dish is a delicious way to elevate pork tenderloin and is sure to be a hit at any meal.

Servings

2-4

Prep Time

10 minutes

Refrigerating the pork in marinade: 6-24 hours

Cook Time

Grilling the pork: 12-15 minutes

Resting time: 10 minutes

Total estimated cook time: 22-25 minutes

Total Time

Approximately 6 to 24 hours

Ingredients

1 pork tenderloin
Zest of 1 lime, finely grated
½ cup fresh lime juice
¼ cup honey
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

  • In a lidded jar, combine lime zest, lime juice, honey, salt, and garlic powder.
  • Shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Marinate the Pork

  • Pour half the marinade into a 1-gallon sealable bag.
  • Add pork tenderloin to the bag, seal tightly, and coat the pork evenly.
  • Refrigerate for 6-24 hours, flipping the bag halfway through for even marination.

Prepare for Grilling

  • Let the marinated pork sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  • Preheat grill to 400°F and lightly oil the grates.

Grilling the Pork

  • Grill pork for 12-15 minutes, turning every 2 minutes until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
  • Remove from grill.

Rest and Serve

  • Place the grilled pork on heavy-duty foil, pour reserved marinade over it, and wrap tightly.
  • Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Tip: Pair with roasted vegetables, cilantro lime rice, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.