Lean Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa

Ingredients

• Pork tenderloin 5 oz
• Brussels sprouts 1 cup
• Quinoa 3/4 cup
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Garlic powder 1/2 tsp
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Preheat oven and prepare Brussels sprouts. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water, then trim the ends and cut them in half. Place them on a baking sheet.
   Tip: Make sure the Brussels sprouts are dry before roasting to get them crispy.
2. Season Brussels sprouts. Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with half the olive oil (about 1/2 tbsp), then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss them well to coat evenly.
   Tip: Use your hands or a spoon to toss so the seasoning is distributed evenly.
3. Roast Brussels sprouts. Place the baking sheet with Brussels sprouts in the oven and roast for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and tender when done.
   Tip: Keep an eye on them near the end to prevent burning.
4. Prepare the pork tenderloin. While Brussels sprouts roast, pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub the remaining olive oil (about 1/2 tbsp) all over the pork. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on all sides.
   Tip: Drying the pork helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning.
5. Cook the pork tenderloin. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. Then reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for another 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
   Tip: Use a meat thermometer for best results to avoid overcooking.
6. Rest the pork and warm quinoa. Remove the pork from the skillet and let it rest on a plate covered loosely with foil for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, warm the cooked quinoa in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
   Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the pork tender and juicy.
7. Slice and serve. Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions. Plate the pork alongside the roasted Brussels sprouts and warm quinoa. Serve immediately.
   Tip: Arrange the plate attractively to make the meal more enjoyable.

Pro tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
• Roasting Brussels sprouts at a high temperature helps them caramelize and become crispy.