Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin, due to its higher cost, is usually reserved for those holiday dinners or special occasions. Beef tenderloin is a guilt free, low fat, low sodium alternative to the traditional ham entree.  For a well trimmed roast, a cooked 3 oz portion is only about 200 calories and is a nutrient dense food providing B vitamins, iron and trace minerals.  Be careful not to overcook.  Tenderloin cooked to medium or medium rate rare should be fork tender.

Serves 8 3 oz cooked portion

Ingredients

1-2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 lbs beef tenderloin
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried savor or other favorite herb blend
½ tsp salt
½ tsp fresh ground black pepper

Directions

1.  Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In small bowl, combine mustard and herbs.
2. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Pat beef dry and sprinkle with salt. Sear beef in skillet on all sides until richly browned(about 4 minutes per side).
3. When beef is seared, transfer to a cutting board and brush with the mustard/herb mixture. Grind fresh ground pepper over the tenderloin. Place on rack in roasting pan and roast to an internal temperature of 120 degrees for medium rare(about 20 min) or to 150 degrees for medium well done (about 25-30 min). 
4. Remove beef and let stand 5-10 minutes before slicing.  Serve warm or at room temperature.