Balsamic-Glazed Pork with Lentils

Toss the lentils with apple, celery, parsley, and lemon juice for a refreshing, crisp side that perks up the roast pork.

Balsamic-Glazed Pork with Lentils

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup green lentils rinsed
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1 1/4- pound pork tenderloin
  • 1 red apple cut into 1⁄2-inch pieces
  • 1 celery stalk thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Heat oven to 400° F. Bring 4 cups water to a boil.
  • Add the lentils and 1 teaspoon salt and simmer, stirring occasionally, until tender, 20 to 30 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  • Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork with ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned, 6 to 8 minutes.
  • Transfer the pork to oven. Roast until cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes, basting with the glaze twice during the last 5 minutes. Let rest before slicing.
  • In a medium bowl, toss cooked lentils with the apple, celery, parsley, lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons oil, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Serve with the pork and any pan drippings.