Herb-roasted Beef Tenderloin

Herb-Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe - Rosemary, Thyme, Pepper, Olive Oil

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 40-45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Herb-roasted Beef Tenderloin is a classic and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings. The tenderloin is seasoned with fresh herbs and roasted to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The tradition of roasting beef tenderloin with herbs dates back centuries, with variations of the recipe found in many different cultures around the world. The combination of fresh rosemary and thyme adds a fragrant and savory flavor to the tenderloin, making it a popular choice for festive meals.

Ingredients

1 beef tenderloin, trimmed and tied (4 lb or 1.9 kg)
6 to 8 sprigs fresh rosemary
6 to 8 sprigs fresh thyme
salt (optional) and freshly ground pepper
1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil

How to prepare

Allow the tenderloin to reach room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C, gas mark 7) and position the oven rack in the center.
Insert the rosemary and thyme sprigs under the string that is tying the fillet.
Place the fillet on a rack in a large roasting pan.
Season with salt (if desired) and pepper.
Roast for 25 minutes.
Baste the beef with olive oil and continue roasting for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until an instant-reading meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat reads 120°F (49°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium (the roast will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven).
Transfer the roast to a heated serving platter and let it rest for 15 minutes at room temperature before carving.
Carve the roast into thin slices and serve.

Variations

Try using different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or sage for a unique flavor profile.
Add a garlic and herb butter topping for extra richness and flavor.
Serve the beef tenderloin with a red wine reduction sauce for an elegant touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to tie the beef tenderloin before roasting to ensure even cooking.

- Allow the meat to come to room temperature before roasting to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- Basting the beef with olive oil during cooking helps to keep it moist and adds flavor.

- Let the roast rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the herb-roasted beef tenderloin with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete and delicious meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead.

- Substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the beef tenderloin up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to roast.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced beef tenderloin on a platter with fresh herbs and garnishes for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the herb-roasted beef tenderloin with a bold red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 0g

Fats

Total Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 48g

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 6mg

Vitamin A: 0%

Vitamin C: 2%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This herb-roasted beef tenderloin is a rich source of protein and iron, making it a nutritious and satisfying main course option.

Summary

Herb-roasted Beef Tenderloin is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and impressive main course that will delight your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day many years ago when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook at a yard sale. The pages were yellowed and fragile, but the words were still clear and legible. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the savory herb-roasted beef tenderloin in my mind.

I had always been a lover of cooking, ever since I was a young girl helping my own grandmother in the kitchen. She taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to prepare a meal with love and care. As I grew older, I continued to expand my culinary skills by experimenting with different recipes and techniques.

But there was something about this particular recipe that spoke to me. Perhaps it was the combination of fragrant herbs and spices, or the promise of a tender and juicy roast that would melt in your mouth. Whatever it was, I knew I had to try it for myself.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients – a beautiful beef tenderloin, fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and a few other pantry staples. As I prepared the marinade and rubbed it onto the meat, the aroma of rosemary, thyme, and garlic filled the air. I could already tell that this dish was going to be something special.

After letting the beef marinate for a few hours, I preheated the oven and carefully placed the roast onto a baking sheet. As it cooked, the kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering scent of roasting meat and herbs. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the beef tenderloin out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. The meat was perfectly cooked, with a beautiful pink hue in the center. The herbs had formed a delicious crust on the outside, adding a burst of flavor with each bite.

I served the herb-roasted beef tenderloin to my family that evening, and their eyes lit up with delight as they took their first bites. The tender meat practically melted in their mouths, and the herbs added a depth of flavor that was truly unforgettable. It was a dish that brought us all together, sharing in the simple pleasure of good food and good company.

From that moment on, the recipe for herb-roasted beef tenderloin became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when I wanted to treat myself to a delicious meal. Each time I prepared it, I would think back to that warm summer day and the serendipitous discovery of this wonderful recipe.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making herb-roasted beef tenderloin to the next generation. And while the cookbook where I first found it may have long since been replaced by newer editions, the memory of that day and the joy of cooking that dish remain forever ingrained in my heart.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the meals I have prepared and the recipes I have collected, I am grateful for the journey that led me to discover the magic of herb-roasted beef tenderloin. It is a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brings into my life, and the memories that are created around the dinner table with loved ones. And for that, I am truly thankful.