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Blackened Cajun Tenderloin with Roasted Corn Salsa

Blackened Cajun Tenderloin with Roasted Corn Salsa: How to Make It!


  • Author: Anele
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Juicy pork tenderloin with a spicy crust served alongside a vibrant roasted corn salsa. Perfect for summer entertaining or an elevated weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pat the pork tenderloin dry and rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice blend.
  4. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining olive oil and sear the tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 5-6 minutes total.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium.
  6. While the pork is roasting, prepare the corn salsa. In a dry skillet over high heat, char the corn kernels until lightly browned in spots, about 5 minutes.
  7. In a bowl, combine charred corn, jalapeño, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Remove pork from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Slice the tenderloin against the grain and serve with the corn salsa.

Notes

  • For best results, bring the pork tenderloin to room temperature before cooking.
  • You can grill the pork instead of using the oven for a smoky flavor.
  • Fresh corn works best for the salsa, but frozen corn can be used when fresh isn’t available.
  • The corn salsa can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 385

Keywords: pork tenderloin, spicy, corn salsa, summer recipe, grilling, southwestern