Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Name: Grilled Mojo-Marinated Beef Tenderloin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil; ⅔ cup cilantro leaves, chopped; Zest and juice of 1 large orange; Juice of 4 limes; 3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (1-pound) beef tenderloins

Published: June 28, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With a simple marinade process, you can have this dish ready to go overnight, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special events.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of citrus and herbs creates a deliciously tangy profile that enhances the natural richness of the beef.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as the main attraction at your dinner table or slice it up for sandwiches or salads—the possibilities are endless.
Impressive Presentation: The beautiful sear and vibrant colors make this dish not just tasty but also visually appealing.
Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe fits well into various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process. Having everything on hand will help you create the perfect grilled tenderloin without missing a step.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor while keeping the meat juicy on the inside.
Mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Whisk: Helps emulsify the marinade ingredients, ensuring a smooth mixture that clings to the meat.
Sharp knife: Necessary for slicing through the tender beef easily after cooking.

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, combine all marinade ingredients until well mixed. This step ensures that every bite of your beef will burst with flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

Place both beef tenderloins in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal or cover tightly and refrigerate overnight for best results.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures you get a nice sear on your beef.

Step 4: Grill the Tenderloin

Remove the tenderloins from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the grill. Cook for about 15 minutes per side for medium rare, or until desired doneness is achieved. Use a meat thermometer if needed; aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 6: Serve

Slice against the grain into thick pieces and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin!

How to Serve Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin is a flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Salad

Citrus Arugula Salad: A refreshing salad with arugula, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette.
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.

Serve with Rice Dishes

Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk for a subtle sweetness that complements the beef.
Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices for added zest.

Add Sauces and Salsas

Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant sauce made with parsley and garlic that adds a fresh kick.
Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy salsa that offers a tropical twist to the dish.

Offer Grilled Vegetables

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil and grilled until slightly charred.
Zucchini Ribbons: Thinly sliced zucchini grilled for a light and healthy side option.

How to Perfect Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

To achieve the best results when making Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Marinade Choice: Allow the meat to marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking to achieve those perfect grill marks.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure optimal doneness without overcooking.
Rest the Meat: Let the tenderloin rest for 10 minutes after grilling to retain its juices.
Slice Against the Grain: Cut the meat against the grain for more tender slices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Pairing your Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic for rich flavor.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until lightly charred, adding sweetness.
Black Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro dressed in lime juice for a refreshing side.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy baked fries that bring sweetness and crunch to your plate.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and vegetables for a healthy grain side option.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts seasoned simply with olive oil and salt for depth of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a delicious outcome.

Skipping the marinating time: Failing to marinate the beef overnight can lead to less flavorful meat. Always allow at least 8 hours for the marinade to work its magic.
Not removing the silver skin: Leaving the silver skin on can result in tough bites. Take a moment to trim it off before marinating for a more tender final dish.
Using low-quality oil: Opting for regular olive oil instead of extra-virgin may compromise flavor. Choose high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for a richer taste.
Underestimating grilling time: Cooking the beef for too short a time can leave it undercooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach your desired doneness.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the beef right after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin in an airtight container.
It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Wrap the grilled tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced beef in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short increments of 30 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep moist. Flip occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin?

Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin is a flavorful dish featuring tender cuts of beef marinated overnight in a citrus and herb-based marinade known as mojo.

How long should I marinate the beef?

For the best flavor, marinate the beef tenderloin overnight — at least 8 hours is ideal.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes! While this recipe highlights tenderloin, you can experiment with flank steak or sirloin as alternatives.

What side dishes pair well with Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin?

Serve it alongside rice, black beans, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that complements the Cuban flavors.

How do I achieve perfect grill marks?

Ensure your grill is preheated and clean. Place the meat at an angle on the grates and only flip once during cooking for those beautiful grill marks.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Mojo-Marinated beef Tenderloin offers vibrant flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Its marinade not only enhances taste but also allows room for customization; feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! This dish is versatile enough to impress at dinner parties or simply enjoy during family meals. Give it a try and savor every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card