Pork medallions with mushrooms and salad

Pork Medallions with Mushrooms and Mixed Salad

Welcome back to our kitchen! Today, I propose a simple, quick, and incredibly tasty recipe: pork medallions with mushrooms and mixed salad. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, and the combination of tender meat with aromatic mushrooms and fresh salad will surely delight any taste buds. Let's get started!

Short History

Pork medallions are a popular dish in kitchens around the world due to their versatility. You can grill, pan-fry, or bake them, and the combination with mushrooms and salad adds a fresh touch, ideal for summer meals. This simplified recipe has been adapted to be quick and accessible without compromising flavor.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 2

Ingredients

- 1 pork tenderloin (approximately 300-400g)
- 4 mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 1 bag of mixed salad (endive, radicchio, leek, arugula)
- 6 cherry tomatoes
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Pork seasoning (e.g., garlic, thyme, rosemary)
- Olive oil (for greasing)
- Balsamic vinegar (or another type for dressing)

Necessary Utensils

- Baking tray
- Baking paper
- Kitchen twine
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Salad bowl

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Tenderloin

1. Cleaning the tenderloin: Start by cleaning the tenderloin of fibers, fats, and membranes. This step is crucial for achieving tender and juicy meat. Use a sharp knife to facilitate the process.

2. Cutting: Cut the tenderloin into 6 equal pieces, each about 2-3 cm thick. It is important that all pieces are of the same thickness for even cooking.

Step 2: Seasoning

3. Tying the tenderloin: Use kitchen twine to tie each piece of meat. This will help maintain shape and ensure the medallions cook evenly.

4. Seasoning: Brush the medallions with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your preferred meat spices. The spices play an essential role in adding depth to the flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the Mushrooms

5. Preparing the mushrooms: Slice or quarter the mushrooms, depending on the desired size. These will add a delicious flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Baking

6. Baking tray: Place the baking paper in the baking tray and brush it with a little oil. This will prevent the medallions from sticking and make cleaning easier.

7. Placing the ingredients: Place the pork medallions in the tray along with the mushroom slices. Ensure there is enough space between them to allow for air circulation.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray in the oven for 25-30 minutes. It is important to turn the medallions only once for even browning on both sides.

Step 5: Preparing the Salad

9. Preparing the salad: While the medallions are baking, you can prepare the salad. In a bowl, mix the mixed salad with the halved cherry tomatoes. Add a little olive oil, salt, and vinegar, mixing well to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Plating

10. Serving: Once the medallions are ready, take the tray out of the oven. Place the salad on a plate and top it with the medallions and mushrooms. You can also add a little sauce from the baking tray for extra flavor.

Helpful Tips

- Choose quality meat: Good quality pork will make a difference in the final dish. Look for meat from ethical sources, preferably from local farmers.

- Vary the mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to change the flavor of the dish.

- Add fresh herbs: A garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, can bring extra freshness and color to the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken instead of pork?: Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with chicken or turkey, adjusting the cooking time based on the type of meat used.

- What side dishes go well with pork medallions?: You can serve the medallions with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice.

Delicious Combinations

To complete the meal, I recommend serving the pork medallions with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade, which will add a refreshing note. Additionally, a serving of mashed potatoes or baked potatoes would make a wonderful side dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork medallions are an excellent source of protein, which helps maintain muscle mass. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, while being low in calories. The mixed salad provides fiber and essential vitamins, making it a healthy accompaniment.

Conclusion

This recipe for pork medallions with mushrooms and mixed salad is not only simple but also full of flavor, promising a delicious and healthy meal. I encourage you to try it and experiment with various ingredients to give it a personal touch. Enjoy your meal!