Shaved Pork Tenderloin Sandwich with Caramelized Apples and Chimichurri Mayo
I've never been excited about leftover grilled pork tenderloin until now! We'll be grilling double from now on. These were a hit for the whole fam. And so quick to throw together!
I've never been excited about leftover grilled pork tenderloin until now! We'll be grilling double from now on. These were a hit for the whole fam. And so quick to throw together!
- arugula
- 1 brioche hamburger bun (or favorite bun. i find the stater brothers, ralphs, and sprouts.)
- 100 g brown sugar garlic pork tenderloin sliced super th heated just barely in the microwave until it's not cold. no need
- 15 g chimichurri (i always make this one when i make t
- 15 g low fat mayo lite sour cream, or greek yogurt*
- 15 g caramelized onions (see below)
- 15 g caramelized apples (see below)
- 40 g sliced tomato
- Carbohydrate 0.365 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.066 g
- Fiber 0.160000002384186 g
- Protein 0.258 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0086 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (210g)
- Sodium 2.7 mg
- Sugar 0.204999997615814 g
- Trans Fat 0.0206 g
- Calories 2 calories
Step-by-step
- Caramelize onions and apples: Heat a large fry pan to medium-high heat, spray with cooking spray, and add thinly sliced onion and apples, careful to keep each on their own side just so you can control what you take. You can do as much as you'd like. I did half an onion and a whole apple and had leftovers. Sprinkle both with a little kosher salt and let sit for a couple of minutes to start cooking. Then turn pan down to medium-low and cook covered for 20-30 minutes until caramelized and tender. They will have cooked down by half. Prep everything else while they cook, stirring them occasionally, careful to keep them divided in the pan. (Unless you don't mind them all combined!)
- Chimichurri mayo: Combine equal parts chimichurri and your base (low-fat mayo, lite (or fat-free) sour cream, or Greek yogurt).
- Toast buns: Spray insides of brioche with a mist of cooking spray and place face down on a preheated pan to toast until golden brown. I always use my pancake skillet. Or you can broil them, just watch closely! But promise you won't skip the toast.
- Build your sandwich: Top bottom bun with 2 tbs or 30 g of chimichurri spread, then 100 g of thinly sliced pork, 15 g each of the caramelized onions and apples, tomatoes, and arugula. I hope you lid it with that toasty top bun... and enjoy!
A Weeknight Wonder: The Shaved Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Let's be honest, sometimes the most exciting meals come from the simplest ingredients and the most unexpected leftovers. This shaved pork tenderloin sandwich is a testament to that! I used to consider leftover grilled pork tenderloin a bit...blah. Plain. Uninspired. But this recipe changed everything. Now, grilling double is the new normal in our house, all thanks to this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-assemble sandwich. It's a hit with everyone in the family, and it comes together in a flash – perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The magic lies in the combination of sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized apples and onions offer a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the richness of the pork tenderloin. The chimichurri mayo adds a vibrant, herbaceous zing, while the arugula provides a peppery bite. The toasted brioche bun? Pure heaven. Each bite is an explosion of textures and tastes, making this sandwich a truly unforgettable experience. It's a recipe that's become a staple in our home, and I know it will quickly become one in yours too. I've even started experimenting with different types of bread - sourdough, ciabatta, even a crusty roll - each offering its unique character to the overall taste experience.
The Story Behind the Sandwich
Being a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weekends are often a whirlwind of activities – errands, family time, and trying to catch up on everything that got pushed aside during the week. That’s why quick and easy recipes, like this one, are absolute lifesavers. I don't have time to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen, but I also refuse to compromise on deliciousness. This sandwich perfectly strikes that balance. The prep is minimal, the cooking time is short, and the result is a meal that’s impressive enough for a casual dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight family meal. The kids love it, my husband raves about it, and frankly, even I find myself sneaking a second one (don't judge!).
Tips and Variations:
Pork Tenderloin Prep: I often marinate my pork tenderloin in a simple mixture of brown sugar, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce for a few hours before grilling, resulting in an even more flavorful sandwich. You can get creative with marinades – experiment with different herbs, spices, or even a citrus-based marinade for a unique twist. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chimichurri Mayo Customization: The beauty of this sandwich lies in its versatility. Don't be afraid to adjust the chimichurri mayo to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chimichurri. Want something spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Experiment with different types of mayonnaise – try a sriracha mayo, a chipotle mayo, or even a truffle mayo for a luxurious touch.
Buns Beyond Brioche: While brioche buns are my personal favorite, feel free to use your preferred type of bun. Sourdough, ciabatta, even a crusty roll – each adds its unique texture and flavor profile. Consider toasting your chosen bun to add an extra layer of deliciousness and prevent it from getting soggy from the juicy fillings.
Add-ins and Substitutions: Feel free to add other vegetables to your sandwich. Roasted red peppers, sauteed mushrooms, or even some crispy bacon would be delicious additions. If you don't have arugula, spinach or other leafy greens will also work wonderfully.
Beyond the Sandwich: The caramelized apples and onions are so delicious on their own, that I often make a double batch and use them as a side dish for other meals. They also make a fantastic topping for grilled chicken or fish.
This shaved pork tenderloin sandwich is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the joy of simple, flavorful meals that come together quickly and effortlessly. It's a recipe that embodies the spirit of busy weeknight cooking – delicious, satisfying, and most importantly, stress-free. So, go ahead and grill that double batch of pork tenderloin; you won't regret it!
