If you want a dish that looks impressive, tastes fresh, and still comes together without hours in the kitchen, pork tenderloin with chimichurri sauce is a winner. This recipe brings together the juicy, tender flavor of pork with the zesty, herb-packed punch of classic chimichurri. It is a perfect balance—hearty and fresh in every bite.
In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to know: from selecting the right cut of pork to making authentic chimichurri, cooking tips, and serving ideas.
Why Pork Tenderloin Works So Well with Chimichurri
Pork tenderloin is naturally lean and mild in flavor. This makes it the perfect canvas for bold sauces like chimichurri. While the pork gives you a juicy, satisfying bite, chimichurri adds a fresh brightness with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.
It is also a dish that works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Cook it for your family, or serve it when you have guests—you will get compliments either way.
What is Chimichurri?
Chimichurri is a traditional Argentine sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It is tangy, garlicky, and slightly spicy, depending on how much chili you add. Unlike creamy sauces, chimichurri is light and refreshing, making it ideal for grilled meats.
There are two popular types:
- Chimichurri Verde – The classic green version with parsley, oregano, and sometimes cilantro.
- Chimichurri Rojo – A red version that includes paprika and roasted red peppers.
For pork tenderloin, the green version is most common, but you can experiment.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1–1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 3–4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Trim any silver skin from the pork. This is a thin, tough layer that can make the meat chewy if left on. Once trimmed, pat the meat dry with a paper towel.
2. Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Rub the seasoning all over the pork tenderloin. Drizzle olive oil to help it sear nicely.
3. Cook the Pork
You can cook pork tenderloin in three ways:
- Oven-Roasted: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Sear pork in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven for 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Grilled: Preheat grill to medium-high. Sear all sides and then cook indirectly until done.
- Pan-Seared Only: Cook over medium heat in a skillet for 15–20 minutes, turning every few minutes.
4. Rest the Meat
Once cooked, let the pork rest for 5–7 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside.
5. Make the Chimichurri
In a bowl, combine parsley, garlic, oregano, chili flakes, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice the pork into ½-inch medallions.
- Spoon chimichurri over each slice just before serving.
- Serve extra sauce on the side so guests can add more if they like.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the extra chimichurri.
Tips for Perfect Pork Tenderloin and Chimichurri
- Do Not Overcook the Pork – Tenderloin is lean, so cooking it too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Use Fresh Herbs for Chimichurri – Fresh parsley and oregano give the sauce its signature brightness.
- Make the Chimichurri Ahead – Letting it sit for an hour allows the flavors to blend better.
- Double the Sauce – It works great on chicken, fish, or even grilled vegetables.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pork Tenderloin – A lean source of protein, rich in B vitamins and minerals.
- Chimichurri Sauce – Packed with antioxidants from parsley and healthy fats from olive oil.
This combination gives you a meal that is both satisfying and nutrient-dense.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use another cut of pork?
A: Yes, but cooking times will vary. Pork loin works, but it is larger and needs longer roasting.
Q: Can I make chimichurri without vinegar?
A: You can substitute lemon juice, but vinegar gives the sauce its signature tang.
Q: How long does chimichurri last?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it lasts up to 5 days.
Final Thoughts
Pork tenderloin with chimichurri is the kind of meal that feels special but is easy enough for a weeknight. With tender, juicy pork and a sauce that bursts with fresh flavor, it is a dish you will want to make again and again.
Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will impress without adding stress. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to pork dish.