Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary Applesauce

A Simple, Nourishing Weeknight Recipe

Looking for a delicious and health-conscious mid-week dinner? This Pork Tenderloin with Rosemary Applesauce is the perfect blend of savory and naturally sweet, and it’s simple enough to prep on a busy weeknight. Marinate the pork beforehand and let the applesauce simmer while you wind down from your day.

This dish combines lean protein with fiber-rich apples and rosemary’s anti-inflammatory power. It’s a flavorful, functional meal the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Pork Tenderloin:

• 1 pork tenderloin
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

For the Rosemary Applesauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup diced shallots
• 2 lbs organic Granny Smith apples (cored and chopped, skin on)
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• 2 cups filtered water

Instructions

Marinate & Cook the Pork:

1. Mix all ingredients except pork to create the marinade in a small bowl.
2. Place the pork tenderloin in a shallow dish or sealable bag, and pour marinade over the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
3. When ready to cook, preheat oven to 400°F.
4. Remove pork from the marinade and place on a baking dish or grill.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or grill over low heat until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with applesauce.

Make the Rosemary Applesauce:

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and sauté until fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add chopped apples, rosemary, salt, pepper, and white wine. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add filtered water and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Once soft, use an immersion blender to blend to your desired consistency.

Slow-cooker option: Add all the applesauce ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours, then blend before serving.

Leave the apple skins on!

The skin contains phytonutrients and fiber that support gut health and provide antioxidant benefits.

Functional Benefits of Rosemary

Rosemary isn’t just for flavor, it’s a powerhouse herb with multiple wellness benefits:

• Natural anti-inflammatory
• Supports mental clarity and mood
• It can act as a natural bug-repellent
• A 2020 study from Japan showed that daily rosemary extract reduced stress, anxiety, and fatigue in just four weeks.

Pair this dish with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced, anti-inflammatory meal supporting gut and immune health.