Pork tenderloin in herb crust on a bed of vegetables

Pork tenderloin in herb crust on a bed of vegetables

Welcome to the wonderful world of cooking, where every ingredient has a story to tell! Today, I will guide you step by step in creating a special recipe: pork tenderloin in an herb crust on a bed of vegetables. This combination will not only impress at any table but will also bring you spring flavors and a crunchy texture, perfect to be enjoyed with loved ones.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 piece of pork tenderloin
- 3-4 potatoes
- 50 g of bacon
- 1 head of garlic
- 1-2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 red onions
- 2 pieces of smoked sausage
- 100 g of peas
- 2-3 teaspoons of mustard
- 2 bunches of dill
- 2 bunches of parsley
- Basil leaves
- 30 g of berries (preferably frozen)
- 50 g of butter
- 100 ml of red wine
- 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
- 50 g of breadcrumbs
- Thyme
- Salt, pepper
- Oil for frying
- A few lasagna sheets

A brief history
This recipe combines various culinary traditions, reminiscent of festive meals from the past, when meat was skillfully prepared and served with fresh vegetables as a symbol of abundance. The herb crust is a wonderful way to add a touch of freshness and flavor, transforming a simple tenderloin into a delicacy worthy of any occasion.

Step by step

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into cubes, the carrots into rounds, the bell peppers into strips, and the onions into quarters. You can leave the garlic whole or cut it in half, depending on your preference. These vegetables will form the delicious base on which the tenderloin will rest.

2. Preparing the baking tray
Grease a tray with oil and arrange the cleaned and cut vegetables, forming a bed for the tenderloin. They will brown and absorb the flavors from the meat during baking.

3. Preparing the tenderloin
If you prefer, cut the tenderloin in half and gently pound it to flatten it. Alternatively, you can use a long knife to create a pocket where you will insert the sausages and bacon.

4. Filling the tenderloin
Add the smoked sausage cut into pieces and the bacon inside the tenderloin. Twist and tie it with kitchen string to maintain its shape. This step is crucial to prevent the meat from falling apart during baking.

5. Preparing the herb crust
Finely chop the dill, parsley, and basil. In a bowl, mix the chopped herbs with grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and a little oil. This crust will not only provide an attractive appearance but also a rich flavor.

6. Browning the tenderloin
In a skillet, heat a little oil and brown the tenderloin for a few minutes until it changes color. Remove it and let it cool slightly.

7. Spreading mustard
Once the tenderloin has cooled, spread mustard on all sides. This layer will help the herb crust adhere better.

8. Applying the crust
Cover the tenderloin with the herb mixture, making sure it is evenly distributed. This crust will become crunchy and delicious during baking.

9. Baking
Place the tenderloin on the bed of vegetables in the tray. Add a little oil and vegetable broth, then cover with aluminum foil for the first part of the baking. Bake at 180°C for 45 minutes. Check occasionally if it is done using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be about 70°C for it to be perfectly cooked.

10. Preparing the dressing
In a blender, add some vegetables from the tray and the berries. Blend until you obtain a smooth sauce. In a skillet, melt the butter, add the obtained dressing, and season with salt and pepper. Pour in the wine and let it reduce until it reaches the desired consistency. Strain the sauce for a fine texture.

11. Boiling the lasagna sheets
Boil the lasagna sheets according to the instructions on the package. After boiling, cut them into desired shapes and fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy. These will add a touch of texture and originality to the dish.

12. Assembling the plate
Carefully place the tenderloin on a platter, surrounded by the browned vegetables, and add the obtained sauce. Decorate with the fried lasagna sheets and a few fresh basil leaves.

Serving and suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with a dry red wine, which will highlight the rich flavors of the meat and vegetables. Additionally, a green salad with lemon dressing can add a pleasant contrast and a touch of freshness.

Tips and variations
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the pork tenderloin with large Portobello mushrooms stuffed with vegetables and cheese. The herb crust can be adapted according to the season, and adding nuts or seeds can bring an extra texture.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can also be adapted with chicken breast, turkey, or even beef, adjusting the baking time according to the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I make the crust spicier?
Add some chili flakes to the herb mixture for a more intense flavor.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
Experiment with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower, to add variety.

4. What is the estimated caloric intake?
One serving contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portions served, being a meal rich in protein and vitamins.

Conclusion
Pork tenderloin in herb crust on a bed of vegetables is a recipe that combines flavors, colors, and textures, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience. Try this recipe at home, share it with your loved ones, and let yourself be carried away by its enticing aromas. Enjoy your meal!