Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Name: Grilled Mojo-Marinated Beef Tenderloin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil; ⅔ cup chopped cilantro; Zest from 1 orange; Juice from 2 oranges (about ½ cup); Juice from 4 limes (about ⅓ cup); 3 tablespoons chopped mint leaves; 6 cloves minced garlic; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper; 2 (1-pound) beef tenderloins

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

July 13, 2025

Updated:

July 13, 2025

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The Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin is a vibrant dish that combines the freshness of citrus with aromatic herbs. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress. The marinade infuses the beef with unforgettable flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic, citrus, and herbs creates a rich and zesty taste.
Easy Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits into any busy schedule.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or special occasions, it suits any event.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a nutritious meal option.
Impressive Presentation: The tenderloin looks stunning on the plate, making it a showstopper.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Ensures an authentic charred flavor and perfect sear on the beef.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the marinade ingredients effectively.
Sharp knife: Makes slicing the tenderloin easier and ensures clean cuts.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for preparing your ingredients.

Ingredients

An easy and delicious overnight marinade with powerful flavors from the garlic, citrus and herbs.

For the Marinade

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
⅔ cup cilantro leaves (lightly packed then chopped)
Zest from 1 large orange
Juice from 2 large oranges (about ½ cup)
Juice from 4 limes (about ⅓ cup)
3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
6 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For the Beef

2 1-pound beef tenderloins (silver skin removed)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients: olive oil, cilantro, orange zest, orange juice, lime juice, mint leaves, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, Kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

Place both beef tenderloins in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the meat. Seal the bag securely while removing excess air. Massage the marinade into the meat gently. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s clean to achieve those beautiful grill marks.

Step 4: Grill the Tenderloin

Remove tenderloins from the marinade and let excess drip off. Place them on the preheated grill. Cook for about 15 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached (135°F for medium-rare).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

After grilling, remove tenderloins from heat. Allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture in the meat. Slice against the grain and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your flavorful journey with this delicious Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin!

How to Serve Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Serving Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin is a delightful experience that brings out the exciting flavors of Cuban cuisine. This dish can be complemented with various sides and garnishes to enhance its rich taste.

Use Fresh Herbs

Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the tenderloin for an added touch of freshness.
Mint Leaves: Add a few mint leaves as a garnish to enhance the herbaceous notes in your dish.

Pair with Citrus

Orange Slices: Serve thin orange slices on the side to accentuate the citrus flavors in the marinade.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten up each bite and add zest.

Accompany with Sauce

Garlic Sauce: Drizzle homemade garlic sauce over the slices for an extra layer of flavor.
Chimichurri: Offer chimichurri sauce for dipping, providing a vibrant contrast to the tender beef.

Create a Salad Plate

Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the beef.
Mango Salsa: Serve alongside mango salsa for a refreshing and sweet complement.

How to Perfect Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Perfecting your Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results every time.

Marinate Overnight: Allow the beef to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption from the mojo ingredients.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check internal temperature; aim for 135°F for medium-rare, ensuring your beef is cooked perfectly.
Let it Rest: After grilling, let the tenderloin rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps retain juices when slicing.
Grill on High Heat: Start cooking on high heat to achieve a beautiful sear, which locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
Slice Against the Grain: Cut the tenderloin against the grain to ensure each piece remains tender and easy to chew.
Experiment with Marinades: While this recipe shines, feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices in your marinade for unique twists.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin can elevate your meal. Choose complementary flavors that enhance this Cuban-inspired main course.

Cuban Black Beans: A classic side, these beans offer protein and flavor that pairs wonderfully with grilled meat.
Yellow Rice: Fluffy yellow rice seasoned with saffron or turmeric provides a colorful base that’s both filling and tasty.
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender offer a smoky contrast to the rich beef.
Plantain Chips: Crunchy plantain chips add texture and a hint of sweetness that balances savory flavors beautifully.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the tenderloin.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado salad dressed with lime juice offers freshness and complements the marinade’s citrus notes.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well, especially when brushed with lime butter before grilling.

These side dishes not only complement but also enhance your dining experience with Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Not marinating long enough: Skipping the overnight marination can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you let the tenderloin soak up the mojo for at least 12 hours for maximum taste.
Using low-quality meat: Choosing subpar beef will affect the dish’s final outcome. Opt for high-quality beef tenderloins for a more tender and flavorful result.
Overcooking the beef: Cooking the meat too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for medium-rare at around 135°F (57°C).
Neglecting to season properly: Forgetting to season with salt and pepper can leave your dish flat. Always season generously before grilling to enhance flavor.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the beef immediately after cooking releases juices. Allow the grilled tenderloin to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin in an airtight container.
It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Wrap the grilled tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date for reference.

Reheating Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed, about 1-2 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add a little olive oil. Sear each side of the slices until warm, about 3-5 minutes total.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin?

Marinate it overnight or at least 12 hours for optimal flavor absorption.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, while tenderloin is best, you can use flank steak or sirloin as alternatives.

What should I serve with Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin?

Pair it with rice, black beans, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin stores well and makes delicious leftovers that are perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. It’s perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the marinade. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful zest!