Irresistibly Succulent Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Citrus Twist : A Family Favorite!

Name: Irresistibly Succulent Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 2 limes, juiced; 2 oranges, juiced; 1 whole bulb garlic, crushed; ¾ cup olive oil; ¼ cup cilantro, fresh, chopped; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; ½ tablespoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1½ lbs pork tenderloin

Posted on January 14, 2026

Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Citrus Twist

Protein

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This Irresistibly Succulent Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Citrus Twist comes together in about 30 minutes and is all in one pan for a easy weeknight dinner that your family will love! You can easily switch up the citrus flavors or even use whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a perfect ‘clean-out-the-fridge’ meal since it’s so adaptable and scrumptious!

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this fabulous Cuban mojo pork tenderloin, you’ll need just a few ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 limes, juiced : Fresh lime juice adds that tangy kick!
2 oranges, juiced : Sweet and zesty, orange juice complements the limes perfectly.
1 whole bulb garlic, crushed : Yes, that’s right! You can never have too much garlic in a good dish.
¾ cup olive oil : This is crucial for keeping your pork moist and tender.
¼ cup cilantro, fresh, chopped : This herb gives it a fresh pop of flavor.
1 tablespoon ground cumin : For that warm, earthy undertone, yes, please!
½ tablespoon kosher salt : Enhances all the delightful flavors.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper : A touch of heat!
1½ lbs pork tenderloin : Try to find a nice, lean piece for the best outcome.

Let’s Get Cooking!

How to Make Irresistibly Succulent Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin

Marinade the Pork (10 minutes): Start by mixing up your marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, crushed garlic, olive oil, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. The aroma will be incredible! Place the pork tenderloin in the marinade, turning it so everything is coated. Let it sit while you prep your pan. (If you have time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight makes it even more flavorful!)
Preheat Your Pan (5 minutes): Grab a large skillet (I typically use one that’s 12 inches in diameter) and heat it over medium-high heat. Allow your pan to get nice and hot, it’ll help in getting that gorgeous sear on the pork!
Sear the Pork (4 minutes): Remove the pork from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Add a couple of tablespoons of the marinade to the hot pan, then add your tenderloin. Sear for about 4 minutes per side, or until it’s brown and crusty all around. You want that caramelization for flavor!
Cook Through (12-15 minutes): Now, pour in the remaining marinade, making sure to scrape the yummy bits off the bottom of the pan (hello, flavor!). Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Cook for another 12-15 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Flip halfway through to ensure it cooks evenly!
Rest & Slice (5 minutes): Once cooked, remove the pork from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps in retaining those juicy flavors when sliced. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Serve It Up: Slice your pork into medallions and drizzle any remaining juices from the pan over the top. Serve this beauty alongside some rice, black beans, or even a light salad for a refreshing twist.

Why I Love This Recipe

Honestly, this is my go-to recipe for busy weeknights! It’s such comforting food, and the flavors are just, well, I’m a real sucker for anything citrusy. The smell wafting through my kitchen is enough to make anyone crave it. And the best part is, it’s versatile! You can change up the sides or even toss in some seasonal veggies. No one ever leaves my table hungry when I whip this up!

If you loved this delicious recipe, be sure to check out my Mexican Pork Pozole, my Maple Dijon Glazed Pork Tenderloin, or my Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork for more flavorful ideas!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen.

One Pan

Not only is it flavorful, but it also requires minimal cleanup, everything’s cooked in one pan. Win-win!

Loaded with Tons of Flavor

The combination of lime, orange, garlic, and cumin creates an explosion of flavor. I mean, what’s not to love?

Customizable

Don’t have cilantro? No worries! Switch it up with parsley or leave it out entirely. You can also opt for chicken if you prefer. The marinade works on just about any protein.

Comfort Food

It’s hearty and satisfying, making it the perfect meal to cozy up with after a long day.

Serving Suggestions

Let’s talk about how to enjoy this Cuban mojo pork tenderloin:

Side Pairings: Serve it with yellow rice, charred veggies, or even tortillas for a taco night twist! I often pair it with a simple avocado salad for a refreshing crunch.
Storage: This dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.
Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat is to use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist as you heat it up.
Freezer Friendly: Yes! You can freeze the cooked pork for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, but with recipes like this Irresistibly Succulent Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin, it becomes a joy! Watching my kids devour it makes every bit of effort worth it. If you’re looking for something tangy, flavorful, and just downright delicious, give this recipe a whirl!

Enjoy cooking, friends! Remember, it’s all about that kitchen creativity. Make it yours, adapt it to fit your family’s favorites, and enjoy the process! Happy cooking! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.