Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Vibrant Pineapple Salsa: A Healthy & Flavorful Weeknight Meal

Discover a true culinary gem that combines lean, tender pork with a burst of tropical flavor: our Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa. This recipe has long been a favorite, cherished for its simplicity, speed, and undeniable deliciousness. Perfect for those busy weeknights or a light, satisfying weekend meal, it’s a dish that effortlessly elevates your dinner table without demanding hours in the kitchen.

Pork tenderloin, known for being incredibly lean and quick-cooking, forms the ideal canvas for this vibrant creation. It’s naturally low in fat and packed with protein, making it a smart choice for health-conscious diners. Each serving is not only fulfilling but also incredibly light, registering just 2 Weight Watchers Points, proving that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious and full of flavor!

The true magic of this dish, however, lies in its fresh and zesty pineapple salsa. This bright, chunky mix of sweet pineapple, crisp red pepper, and aromatic herbs delivers a juicy, tangy kick that utterly transforms the grilled pork. It’s a tropical explosion that adds a layer of freshness and excitement, turning simple grilled meat into an unforgettable experience. Serve your beautifully sliced pork tenderloin generously stuffed or topped with this vibrant pineapple-red pepper concoction. For more inspired and low-point meal ideas, explore our extensive collection of Weight Watchers dinner recipes.

Recipe Overview and Why You’ll Love It

This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it an excellent choice for any home cook. Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Serving Size: 1/2 tenderloin with salsa (generous and satisfying)
• Number of Servings: 4 (perfect for a family meal or meal prepping)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (active prep, excluding marination)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (quick grilling for a tender result)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (including minimum marination)
• Weight Watchers Points Per Serving: A fantastic 2 WW Points! You can access the full recipe on the WW App here (WW login required).

Why this Grilled Pork Tenderloin will become your go-to recipe:

• Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The sweet and tangy pineapple salsa perfectly complements the savory, lean pork, creating a taste sensation that’s both exotic and comforting.
• Incredibly Healthy: High in protein and low in fat, this meal is a fantastic option for anyone looking for nutritious, well-balanced dinners without compromising on taste.
• Weight Watchers Friendly: At just 2 points per serving, it’s an ideal choice for those following the Weight Watchers program or simply aiming for lighter meals.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you slice the pork into medallions or butterfly it for stuffing, this recipe offers flexibility in how you present and enjoy your meal.
• Family Favorite: Its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it a hit with both adults and children, even those who might be picky eaters.

Essential Ingredients for Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final flavor profile. Opt for fresh produce whenever possible to truly make the salsa shine!

For the Flavorful Pork Tenderloin:

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 ½ lbs total), trimmed: This cut is lean, tender, and cooks quickly. Ensure they are trimmed of any silver skin for the best texture.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning the pork and enhancing its natural flavors. Don’t be shy, but season according to your preference.
• Black pepper, to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a wonderful aromatic warmth to the pork.
• 1 teaspoon oil (5 ml): A small amount of neutral oil (like olive, avocado, or canola) helps create a beautiful sear on the tenderloin and prevents sticking to the grill.
• 1 cup pineapple juice (240 ml): This is the secret to tender, flavorful pork. The enzymes in pineapple juice act as a natural tenderizer and infuse the meat with a subtle sweetness.

For the Bright Pineapple Salsa:

• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple (165 g): The star of the salsa! Choose a ripe pineapple – it should smell sweet at the base and yield slightly to pressure. Dice it into small, even pieces.
• ½ cup finely chopped red onion (80 g): Adds a sharp, pungent bite and a beautiful color contrast. Finely chop it to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper (75 g): Provides a sweet crunch and an additional layer of vibrant color. Green bell pepper can be used, but red is sweeter.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (30 ml): Crucial for balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and adding a bright, acidic tang that brings all the flavors together. Freshly squeezed is a must!
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (5 ml): A touch of olive oil in the salsa adds richness and helps bind the ingredients, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish: Offers a fresh, herbaceous aroma and flavor. Chop roughly and add just before serving for maximum impact. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be a mild substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Your Tropical Pork Tenderloin

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly grilled pork tenderloin with an irresistible pineapple salsa. Precision in timing and technique ensures the best results every time.

1. Marinate the Pork: Begin by placing the trimmed pork tenderloins into a resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive shallow dish. Pour the entire cup of pineapple juice over the pork, ensuring it is fully submerged or well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For an even deeper flavor penetration and tenderness, we highly recommend marinating overnight (8-12 hours). This step is key to infusing the pork with its tropical essence and ensuring maximum juiciness.
2. Prepare for Grilling: When you’re ready to cook, remove the pork tenderloins from the marinade. It’s crucial to pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels on all sides. Discard the used marinade, as it should not be reused. Generously season the dry tenderloins with salt and black pepper. The dry surface allows for a better sear and crust. Finally, rub the teaspoon of oil evenly over the seasoned pork.
3. Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill over high heat until it is screaming hot. You should hear a distinct sizzle when the pork touches the grates. Place the tenderloins on the hot grill and let them sear undisturbed for 4–5 minutes on one side. This initial sear creates a beautiful, caramelized crust. Once a nice crust has formed, turn the tenderloins to brown all sides evenly.
4. Adjusting for Thickness: If your tenderloins are thicker or heavier than average (exceeding 2 pounds total), you may need to adjust the cooking method. After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low, add ¼ cup of water (60 ml) to the grill pan (or to a drip pan if using an outdoor grill), and cover. This creates a steaming effect that helps the inside cook through without over-browning or burning the exterior. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), as measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. Total cooking time will typically range from 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
5. Craft the Pineapple Salsa: While the pork is grilling, prepare your fresh pineapple salsa. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced fresh pineapple, finely chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, fresh lime juice, and olive oil. Stir all the ingredients gently until they are thoroughly mixed. Taste the salsa and add a small pinch of salt if needed to enhance the flavors. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves just before you’re ready to serve.
6. Rest and Serve: Once the pork tenderloin is cooked to the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill. Transfer it to a clean cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is vital, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and succulent final product. After resting, you have two elegant serving options: either slice each tenderloin lengthwise (like opening a hot dog bun) and spoon the pineapple salsa generously into the center, or slice the pork into beautiful medallions and top each piece with a dollop of fresh salsa.
7. Enjoy Your Meal: Serve immediately, paired perfectly with a fresh green salad, coconut rice, or your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa

Even though pork tenderloin is a somewhat more premium cut of meat, it benefits from careful attention, much like any other fine cut. Mastering these simple tips will ensure your dish is nothing short of spectacular.

• Prioritize Marination: Marinating the pork tenderloin for at least 2 hours is good, but allowing it to soak in the pineapple juice overnight in the refrigerator truly works wonders. The enzymes in the pineapple juice tenderize the meat and infuse it with profound tropical flavors, making every bite incredibly succulent.
• Ensure a Dry Surface: Before hitting the grill, it’s absolutely essential to remove the pork from the marinade and thoroughly pat it dry with paper towels. A dry surface is critical for achieving a beautiful, crispy sear. If the meat is wet, it will steam rather than sear, resulting in a less desirable texture.
• Preheat Your Grill Adequately: Always ensure your grill or grill pan is extremely hot before placing the pork tenderloin on it. This high initial heat is what creates that perfect sizzle and delicious caramelized crust on the outside, locking in the juices.
• Mind the Thickness: Cook the pork tenderloin on all sides, turning it as needed to achieve even browning. If your particular cut of tenderloin is larger or thicker than average (e.g., weighing more than two pounds), consider lowering the heat to medium after the initial sear. Add about ¼ cup (60ml) of water and cover the grill or pan. This helps the heat penetrate to the center without overcooking or burning the exterior, guaranteeing a tender, cooked-through result.
• The Importance of Resting: After cooking, always remove the pork from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the meat fibers to relax and redistribute the juices, ensuring a more tender and moist finished product. Skipping this step can lead to dry pork.
• Fresh Salsa is Best: Assemble the pineapple salsa just before serving to maintain its freshness, crisp texture, and vibrant colors. Adding the salsa immediately after slicing and resting the meat ensures that the veggie pieces stay firm and crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the tender pork.
• Utilize a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your pork is perfectly cooked and safe to eat is by using a reliable meat thermometer. Pork tenderloin is done when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Delightful Serving Suggestions

This Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa is a complete meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Coconut Lime Rice: The creamy, aromatic coconut rice infused with lime zest provides a fantastic tropical base that beautifully complements the pork and salsa.
• Quinoa Salad: A light and fluffy quinoa salad with a citrus dressing offers a healthy, protein-rich, and refreshing accompaniment.
• Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: Simple, crisp steamed vegetables are a classic choice that lets the main dish shine while adding essential nutrients.
• Sweet Potato Fries: For a slightly heartier side, sweet potato fries offer a touch of sweetness and a satisfying texture contrast.
• Side Salad with a Vinaigrette: A simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette ensures a refreshing and palate-cleansing element.
• Black Beans and Corn Salad: A vibrant salad made with black beans, corn, red onion, and a lime dressing would echo the flavors of the salsa and add more substance.

Creative Variations and Customizations

While the original recipe is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the pineapple salsa. Remove the seeds for less heat.
• Herb Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley or mint can offer a different but equally refreshing herbaceous note in the salsa.
• Fruit Swaps: While pineapple is key, you could experiment with mango salsa for a different tropical twist, though you might lose some of the tenderizing benefits of pineapple juice.
• Citrus Zest: Add a pinch of lime zest to the salsa for an even more intense citrus aroma and flavor.
• Smoky Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika in the pork seasoning can add a delightful smoky depth to the meat.
• Cooking Method: If a grill isn’t available, you can pan-sear the tenderloin on a cast-iron skillet, or roast it in the oven. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Discover More Delicious Recipes

If you enjoyed this pork tenderloin recipe, you might also love these other flavorful options:

Pork loin with plum sauce

Orange pork loin

Smoked pork tenderloin

★
★
★
★
★

No ratings yet

Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa

Servings:
4

Prep:

1 hour hr
15 minutes mins

Cook:

25 minutes mins

Total:

1 hour hr
40 minutes mins

Pin Recipe
Share by Email
Print Recipe

A fresh, healthy, and incredibly delicious low-point pork dinner recipe, perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins, about 1 ½ lbs total, trimmed of silver skin
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• 1 teaspoon oil, e.g., olive or avocado oil (5 ml)
• 1 cup pineapple juice, for marination (240 ml)

For the Pineapple Salsa:

• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, finely diced (165 g)
• ½ cup finely chopped red onion, (80 g)
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper, finely diced (75 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, freshly squeezed (30 ml)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil, extra virgin (5 ml)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish

Cook Mode

Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Place the pork tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the pineapple juice over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
2. When you’re ready to cook, remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Discard the used marinade. Season the tenderloins generously on all sides with salt and black pepper, then rub them with the teaspoon of oil to aid in searing.
3. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over high heat until very hot. Place the tenderloins on the grill and let them sear undisturbed for 4–5 minutes on one side to develop a crust. Turn them to brown all sides evenly. If your tenderloins are thicker (over 2 lbs total), reduce heat to medium, add ¼ cup of water (60 ml), and cover to cook through without burning. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), about 20–25 minutes total.
4. While the pork is cooking, prepare the pineapple salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, red bell pepper, lime juice, and olive oil. Stir gently until well mixed. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving.
5. Once the pork is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. After resting, slice each tenderloin lengthwise (like a hot dog bun) and spoon the pineapple salsa into the center, or slice into medallions and top each piece with salsa.
6. Serve immediately, paired with a fresh salad or a side of your choice for a complete tropical meal.

Notes

This incredibly flavorful meal is very light and perfectly aligned with healthy eating goals, coming in at just 2 Weight Watchers Points per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 328g
Calories: 272kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1.4g
Cholesterol: 114mg
Sodium: 1266mg
Potassium: 869mg
Fiber: 1.1g
Sugar: 12g
Calcium: 20mg
Iron: 2.1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
American

Tried this recipe?
Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!

We hope you enjoy this delightful and healthy Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa as much as we do. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create an extraordinary meal. Happy cooking!