Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ciabatta rolls
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup arugula
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Place pork tenderloin in a large resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over it. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the pork. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove pork from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
5. Grill pork for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F on a meat thermometer.
6. Remove pork from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
7. Toast ciabatta rolls on the grill or in the oven.
8. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced pork on the bottom half of the roll, followed by avocado, red onion, and arugula. Top with the other half of the roll.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes to 4 hours and 20 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Internal temperature of pork: 145°F
Serving size:
Makes 4 sandwiches
Nutritional information:
Calories: 489
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 74mg
Sodium: 539mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 34g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork tenderloin: chicken breast or thighs, beef sirloin or flank steak, or tofu
- Lime juice: lemon juice or orange juice
- Cilantro: parsley or basil
- Ciabatta rolls: any type of bread or roll
- Avocado: sliced tomato or cucumber
- Red onion: sliced sweet onion or shallots
- Arugula: spinach or mixed greens
Variations:
- Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use the pork tenderloin to make tacos instead of sandwiches.
- Make a cilantro lime mayo by mixing mayonnaise with lime juice and chopped cilantro to spread on the rolls.
- Add sliced bell peppers or grilled corn to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- For even cooking, make sure the pork tenderloin is the same thickness throughout.
- Don't overcook the pork or it will become dry and tough.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the correct temperature.
- Toasting the rolls on the grill or in the oven will add extra flavor and texture to the sandwich.
Storage instructions:
Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat pork in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve sandwiches on a platter with a side of chips or a salad.
Garnishes:
Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges.
Pairings:
Pair with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of chips, fries, or a salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the pork is not cooked through, continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with raw pork to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
Pork tenderloin is a popular cut of meat that is lean and tender. It is often used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, tacos, and stir-fries.
Flavor profiles:
The cilantro lime marinade adds a bright and tangy flavor to the pork, while the avocado, red onion, and arugula add freshness and texture to the sandwich.
Serving suggestions:
Serve sandwiches with a side of chips, fries, or a salad.
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