This jerk pork tenderloin is what happens when island flavor meets Gen X confidence. It’s tender, spicy, and not here to impress anybody who still thinks salt is enough. This dish knows who it is, lean, flavorful, and handled with care, just like the best versions of ourselves.

Whether you’re cooking for company or reclaiming your kitchen throne on a random weeknight, this recipe shows up and shows out without doing the most.

You will need:

• 2 Tbsp. dry jerk seasoning (see here)
• 4 tsp. olive oil, divided 
• 1 1 1/4-pound pork tenderloin
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• Kosher salt
• 3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving
• 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 small pineapple (about 2 pounds), peeled, cored, and chopped (2 cups)
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves and stems, finely chopped

• Heat grill to medium. In small bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and 2 tablespoons oil; rub all over pork tenderloin. Grill pork, covered, turning occasionally, until grill marks appear on all sides and internal temperature reaches 145°F, 18 to 22 minutes. Transfer pork to cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
• Step 2
  • Meanwhile, in medium saucepan, combine rice, 1 1/4 cups water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until rice is just tender, 12 to 14 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, until ready to serve.  
•  Step 3
  • In medium bowl, stir together lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 2 tablespoons oil; let sit 5 minutes, then fold in pineapple and cilantro.
• Step 4
  • Serve jerk pork with rice topped with pineapple salsa and more cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing. 

Serve this jerk pork tenderloin hot, sliced, and unapologetically flavorful. Pair it with something cooling rice, veggies, or peace of mind and enjoy the balance. Because just like life, it’s all about knowing when to bring the heat and when to let things rest. Vintage mistakes, modern wisdom… and a plate you’ll definitely come back for.

I believe what you build from scratch, whether it’s a meal, a mindset, or a new season of life, always carries more meaning. So try the recipe, trust your instincts, and let this be another reminder that you’re allowed to do things your way now. If it nourished you, pass it on. Somebody else might need this lesson too.