Pork Tenderloin with Spinach and Cheese Filling
This delightful dish combines tender pork tenderloin with a flavorful filling of fresh spinach and Džiugas Delicate cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion. The pork is skillfully prepared by making small incisions to hold the rich filling, turning the dish into a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Spinach adds color and nutrition, while the cheese brings a creamy, slightly salty element that melts perfectly into the tender pork. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, this dish is a great option for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. The use of simple, fresh ingredients, along with the unique presentation, ensures that this meal impresses without overwhelming the cook. The tenderness of the pork, combined with the cheesy-spinach filling, offers a balanced flavor that doesn't require complex spices to come alive. An optimal choice for those who appreciate simplicity and taste, it's a modern twist on traditional flavors. This recipe is both delicious and aesthetically pleasing, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 600 g boneless pork tenderloin
- 300 g fresh spinach leaves
- 1 onion
- 40 g butter
- 100 g Džiugas Delicate cheese shavings
Preparation Time
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F) to ensure it's ready for the pork.
- Prepare the pork tenderloin by making incisions every 3-4 cm on the upper side. Sprinkle with a generous amount of salt.
- Slice the onion into small cubes, readying them for sautéing.
- In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble.
- Add the diced onion into the pan, cooking until it turns translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pan. Stir gently until they wilt and blend with the onions.
- Season the spinach mixture with a pinch of salt for taste.
- Carefully stuff the prepared incisions in the pork with the sautéed spinach and onion mixture, ensuring each cut is well filled.
- Take the Džiugas Delicate cheese shavings and place them into the same incisions over the spinach mixture.
- Wrap the stuffed pork tenderloin tightly in aluminum foil to retain moisture during cooking.
- Place the wrapped pork on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before unwrapping.
- Carefully remove the foil, ensuring you keep the filling intact.
- Slice the pork into serving-sized portions, revealing the colorful filling inside.
- Sprinkle additional cheese shavings on top before serving for added flavor and presentation.
- Consider serving alongside a fresh salad or seasoned vegetables for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your meal with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
- For added texture, serve with crispbreads or garlic bread on the side.
Tips
- Ensure even cooking: Make uniform incisions for even stuffing and cooking.
- Cheese options: Substitute with other hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino if Džiugas is unavailable.
- Spinach prep: Drain excess moisture from spinach before filling to prevent sogginess.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fats: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute pork with large portobello mushrooms.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the spinach mixture for extra heat.
- Garlic Addition: Include 2 cloves of minced garlic to enhance the aroma.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted potatoes or a light pasta salad.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Serve alongside a citrusy vinaigrette salad.
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