Balsamic Rosemary Grilled Beef Tenderloin

Balsamic Rosemary Grilled Beef Tenderloin is a perfect dish for those special occasions when you want to serve something both elegant and incredibly flavorful. This cut of beef is prized for its tenderness and flavor, and grilling it with the savory combination of balsamic vinegar, rosemary, and garlic elevates it to an unforgettable level. Whether it’s for a family barbecue, a special dinner gathering, or a weekend meal that you want to make extra memorable, this recipe is sure to please every meat lover. It is not only simple to prepare but also brings out the best in every ingredient. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring that your dish turns out perfect each time.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Nutrition Information

• Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: 320 kcal

Ingredients

To create the perfect Balsamic Rosemary Grilled Beef Tenderloin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Marinate the Beef

The key to a delicious tenderloin is the marinade. Here’s how to make the perfect marinade and prepare the beef for grilling:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Place the trimmed beef tenderloin in the bowl and rub the marinade mixture all over the meat. Make sure that the tenderloin is evenly coated on all sides for maximum flavor.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the marinated beef into a resealable plastic bag. Let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 2 hours for the best flavor infusion.

2. Preheat the Grill

Grilling the tenderloin requires careful temperature control to ensure that the meat cooks evenly without burning:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F or 200°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed to create a steady heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the beef from sticking during cooking. You can do this by using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil and rubbing it over the grates with tongs.

3. Grill the Beef

Cooking the beef tenderloin over direct heat will give it a great sear, while indirect heat will ensure it cooks perfectly throughout:

1. Place the marinated beef tenderloin directly on the preheated grill grates.
2. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. The internal temperature of the beef should reach 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
3. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to accurately measure the temperature at the thickest part of the beef.

4. Rest the Meat

After grilling, it is crucial to let the beef rest before slicing:

1. Remove the beef tenderloin from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board.
2. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy tenderloin when sliced.

5. Slice and Serve

Once rested, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor:

1. Slice the beef tenderloin into ½-inch to 1-inch thick slices, depending on your preference.
2. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Beef Tenderloin

• Choose the Right Cut: The quality of your beef tenderloin will make a big difference. Choose a tenderloin that is bright red in color with a good amount of marbling for the best flavor.
• Marinating Time: Although 30 minutes is sufficient for marinating, leaving the beef to marinate for 2 hours will enhance the flavors and tenderness.
• Grilling Temperature: Maintaining a consistent medium-high temperature on the grill will help cook the beef evenly and create a nice sear without overcooking the exterior.
• Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness without guessing.
• Resting Time: Allowing the beef to rest after cooking will keep it juicy and tender. Skipping this step may result in losing all the flavorful juices when slicing.

Benefits of Balsamic Rosemary Grilled Beef Tenderloin

• Rich in Protein: Beef tenderloin is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rosemary Benefits: Rosemary is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are great for boosting your immune system and improving circulation.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that help lower bad cholesterol levels.
• Low in Carbs: This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those following low-carb or keto diets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef for this recipe, such as a sirloin or ribeye, but keep in mind that the tenderness and cooking time will vary. Beef tenderloin is preferred for its tenderness and mild flavor, making it the ideal choice for this recipe.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftover beef tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, wrap the slices in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

3. Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can make this recipe in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Sear the beef in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before transferring it to the oven. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.

4. What Sides Go Well with This Beef Tenderloin?

Some great side dishes include roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, a fresh garden salad, or oven-roasted carrots and parsnips. The simplicity of these sides will complement the rich flavors of the tenderloin without overwhelming the palate.

Additional Headings to Explore the Recipe Further

How to Select the Best Beef Tenderloin

Selecting the right cut of beef is crucial to the outcome of your dish. The tenderloin should have a bright, even color and some visible marbling, which indicates flavor. The meat should feel firm to the touch, and there should be no strong or off odors. A good-quality tenderloin may be more expensive, but it is worth the investment for a special occasion.

The Importance of Proper Marinating Techniques

Marinating beef tenderloin allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, ensuring that each bite is flavorful. When marinating, it is essential to completely coat the beef and give it adequate time for the flavors to soak in. The balsamic vinegar helps tenderize the beef, while the garlic and rosemary add savory notes.

Grilling Techniques for Optimal Flavor

Grilling beef tenderloin can be intimidating, but with the proper technique, it can be straightforward. It is important to grill over direct heat initially to get a good sear, which locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust. Then, moving the tenderloin to indirect heat allows the center to cook evenly.

Rosemary: The Herb that Brings It All Together

Rosemary is a fantastic herb for grilling meats because it adds a fragrant, earthy flavor that complements the richness of the beef. Its woodsy aroma also enhances the smokiness from the grill. In addition, rosemary contains carnosic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may even help with digestion.

Conclusion

Balsamic Rosemary Grilled Beef Tenderloin is an impressive and delicious dish that will be a hit at your next dinner gathering. This recipe is straightforward to make, yet the flavors are sophisticated and mouthwatering. The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and rosemary perfectly complements the tenderness of the beef, creating a memorable culinary experience.

Whether you’re new to grilling or an experienced cook, following the tips and steps in this guide will ensure that your tenderloin turns out juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. Don’t forget to choose the best cut of beef, marinate thoroughly, and let it rest after cooking. Serve it alongside your favorite side dishes, and you’ll have a meal that is sure to impress.

Now that you have all the steps and tips for making the perfect Balsamic Rosemary Grilled Beef Tenderloin, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy this delectable dish. Happy grilling!