Let me tell you, there’s something incredibly satisfying about cooking up a batch of balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours slaving away. The aroma of balsamic vinegar and garlic sizzling in the skillet is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! I remember the first time I made this recipe; I had some pork tenderloin in the fridge and decided to experiment. Little did I know, I’d create a dish that would not only impress my family but also become a go-to for quick dinners. Trust me, once you try these nuggets, you’ll be adding them to your regular rotation!
Ingredients for Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets
Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather everything we need for these scrumptious balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cubed – This is the star of the show! Make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar – Adds that tangy sweetness we all love.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Perfect for sautéing and gives a lovely richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A touch of herbaceous goodness to elevate the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These juicy gems add color and burst with flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – For that fresh finish and aromatic touch.
Now that we have our ingredients ready, we can move on to the fun part: cooking!
How to Prepare Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets
Alright, let’s get to the heart of this recipe! Preparing these balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets is simple and oh-so-rewarding. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Preparing the Marinade
First things first, we need to whip up that amazing marinade. In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. I like to whisk it all together until it’s nicely blended. You want those flavors to mingle and create a beautiful base for the pork. The smell alone will have you excited to cook!
Marinating the Pork
Next, it’s time to marinate the pork! Take your 1 lb pork tenderloin, cubed, and toss those lovely pieces right into the marinade. Make sure each cube is well coated—this step is crucial for infusing that delicious flavor throughout the meat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature. If you have a bit more time, letting it marinate longer in the fridge is even better, but 15 minutes will still work wonders!
Cooking the Pork
Now, let’s heat things up! Preheat your skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated pork cubes in a single layer. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re beautifully browned on all sides. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook—nobody likes dry pork! A good way to check for doneness is to cut a piece in half; it should be just cooked through and juicy.
Adding the Tomatoes and Basil
Now, for the colorful part! Once the pork is cooked, it’s time to throw in 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes. Stir them in and cook for another 3 minutes, or until they soften and begin to burst with flavor. Finally, don’t forget to sprinkle in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil just before serving. This adds a fresh, aromatic finish that takes your dish to the next level. Give it all a good stir, and voilà! Your skillet is ready to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for weeknights!
- Flavor-packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Healthy ingredients: Lean pork tenderloin and fresh vegetables make this a nutritious meal, packed with protein and flavor.
- Versatile: Pair it with rice, salad, or steamed veggies for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Simple to customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or veggies for a personal twist!
- One-pan wonder: Easy cleanup means you can enjoy your meal without a mountain of dishes to tackle afterward.
Tips for Success
To make sure your balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips:
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to taste and tweak! If you like a bit more zing, add a splash more balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Let the Pork Come to Room Temperature: Before cooking, let your marinated pork sit out for about 10 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking and nice browning.
- Don’t Crow the Skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, the pork will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary to get that lovely golden crust.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; pork is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C). It’s juicy and delicious when cooked right!
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet makes it easier to achieve that lovely brown color without the pork sticking. If you don’t have one, just be sure to add a bit more olive oil.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the pork nuggets rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy and tender.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at making these flavorful nuggets in no time! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up those delicious balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets, let’s talk about what to serve them with for a complete and satisfying meal! Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Fluffy Rice: A bed of steamed white or brown rice is perfect for soaking up all that flavorful balsamic sauce. You can also try flavored rice like garlic or herb for an extra touch!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pork. Toss in some nuts or feta for added texture!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for a colorful and nutritious side. Just toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender!
- Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, serve some warm garlic bread on the side. It’s great for mopping up any leftover juices on your plate!
- Pasta: A simple pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs can complement the flavors of the pork beautifully. It’s a lovely way to add some carbs to the mix!
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed option, consider serving your pork with fluffy quinoa. It’s nutty, nutritious, and will give your meal a wholesome boost!
Mix and match these sides based on your mood and occasion! The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so feel free to get creative. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutritional Information for Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets
Let’s talk about the nutritional benefits of these scrumptious balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets! It’s always good to know what we’re putting into our bodies, right? Below are the estimated values per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 40g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But one thing’s for sure—this dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying choice for any meal! Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with every delicious bite!
FAQ About Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Absolutely! While I love using pork tenderloin for its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or even pork chops. Just remember that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different but still tasty flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of balsamic is unique, so you might want to add a pinch of sugar to mimic that sweetness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the pork a few hours in advance or even overnight for deeper flavor. Just cook it right before you’re ready to serve. It’s a real time-saver for busy weeknights!
What should I do with the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also throw them on a salad or in a wrap for a quick lunch!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, these balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets are naturally gluten-free! Just make sure any additional ingredients or sides you use are also gluten-free to keep the entire meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For a delightful side dish, try our strawberry spinach salad with balsamic glaze!
Learn more about the health benefits of balsamic vinegar!
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Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets: 5-Star Flavor in 25 Min
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets with herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cubed
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat.
- Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add pork cubes to the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Cook pork in the skillet until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or rice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: balsamic roasted pork skillet nuggets, pork recipe, easy dinner, skillet meal