Teriyaki pork tenderloin is a savory and slightly sweet dish that's always a hit. When serving this flavorful meat, picking the right sides can enhance the meal beautifully.

Here are 15 tasty side dishes that complement the rich, umami-packed flavors of teriyaki pork, adding variety and balance to your dinner table.

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The best side dishes to serve with teriyaki pork tenderloin are polenta, carrots and potatoes, Brussel sprouts, arugula salad, mashed potatoes, bacon wrapped green beans, sweet potato tater tots, brown rice and vegetables, roasted cauliflower, caramelized onions, rice pilaf, and sesame asparagus.

Now, let's get cooking!

Table of Contents

1. Polenta
2. Carrots and Potatoes
3. Brussel Sprouts
4. Green Beans
5. Arugula Salad
6. Mashed Potatoes
7. Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
8. Sweet Potato Tater Tots
9. Brown Rice and Vegetables
10. Roasted Cauliflower
11. Caramelized Onions
12. Rice Pilaf
13. Sesame Asparagus
14. Grilled Pineapple Slices
15. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
What To Serve With Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin

1. Polenta

Polenta is a smooth, creamy side that goes wonderfully with teriyaki pork tenderloin. Its mild, buttery flavor balances the strong, savory notes of the teriyaki sauce, providing a comforting base for the tender meat. You can serve it soft and creamy, or let it set and slice it into wedges and grill for a bit of crisp.

2. Carrots and Potatoes

Air fryer carrots and potatoes offer a delightful mix of sweet and earthy flavors, which complement the teriyaki pork beautifully. This dish is simple yet effective, with the natural sweetness of the carrots and the heartiness of the potatoes making a perfect backdrop to the rich, glazed tenderloin. The air fryer ensures they are perfectly crispy without being greasy.

3. Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts, roasted until caramelized, are a fantastic side for teriyaki pork tenderloin. Their slightly bitter edge and crunchy texture contrast nicely with the sweet and tender pork. You can enhance their flavor by tossing them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting, which brings out a nutty, savory depth that pairs well with the meat.

4. Green Beans

Green beans are a fresh, vibrant side that adds a pop of color and a crisp texture to your plate. Lightly steamed or sautéed with garlic, they provide a subtle, earthy contrast to the sweet and savory teriyaki pork. This side is not only healthy but also helps balance the richness of the main dish.

5. Arugula Salad

Arugula salad is a peppery, refreshing choice that cuts through the richness of teriyaki pork tenderloin. Toss it with a light vinaigrette, some cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan for a salad that bursts with flavor. Its sharpness complements the sweet glaze of the pork, providing a refreshing bite with each forkful.

6. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs beautifully with almost any main dish, including teriyaki pork tenderloin. Their creamy texture and buttery taste create a comforting base that absorbs the teriyaki sauce wonderfully, allowing you to savor every bit of flavor. For an extra touch of luxury, mix in some roasted garlic or a spoonful of sour cream.

7. Bacon Wrapped Green Beans

Bacon wrapped green beans are a savory, indulgent side that adds a bit of decadence to your meal. The salty, crispy bacon wrapped around crisp green beans makes a delicious contrast to the sweet and savory pork. This dish not only tastes great but also looks impressive, making it perfect for special occasions.

8. Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Sweet potato tater tots offer a fun, flavorful twist on traditional tater tots. Their natural sweetness and crispy exterior make them an excellent companion to the savory teriyaki pork tenderloin. These tots are perfect for scooping up extra sauce and adding a bit of crunch to each bite, enhancing the overall texture of the meal.

9. Brown Rice and Vegetables

Brown rice and vegetables serve as a wholesome, nutritious side that complements the richness of teriyaki pork tenderloin. The chewy texture of brown rice paired with a medley of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots, not only adds visual appeal but also provides a balance of flavors that support the main dish without overpowering it.

10. Roasted Cauliflower

Whole roasted cauliflower is a simple yet elegant side that pairs beautifully with teriyaki pork tenderloin. Roasting the cauliflower intensifies its flavor, giving it a nutty, sweet profile that complements the rich teriyaki glaze. You can season it with just salt and pepper or add spices like turmeric or cumin for an extra flavor boost.

11. Caramelized Onions

Caramelized onions add a rich, sweet depth to any dish, including teriyaki pork tenderloin. Their slow-cooked, tender texture and deep, sugary flavor contrast wonderfully with the savory pork, enhancing the dish’s overall taste complexity. They can be served as a topping or a standalone side, providing a touch of elegance to the plate.

12. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a versatile side that adds a fragrant and flavorful base to your teriyaki pork tenderloin meal. Cooked with broth, onions, and a variety of herbs, pilaf turns ordinary rice into a savory, fluffy complement that soaks up the teriyaki sauce and enriches every forkful with its aromatic presence.

13. Sesame Asparagus

Sesame asparagus is a light, flavorful side that brings a crisp, fresh element to the table. Tossed with sesame oil and seeds and quickly grilled or roasted, it provides a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory notes of teriyaki pork tenderloin.

14. Grilled Pineapple Slices

Grilled pineapple slices offer a sweet, tangy counterpoint to the umami-rich teriyaki pork tenderloin. The natural sugars in the pineapple caramelize on the grill, providing a delightful sweetness that complements the depth of the teriyaki sauce. These slices are not only delicious but also add a tropical flair to the meal.

15. Stir-Fried Bok Choy

Stir-fried bok choy is a quick and healthy side that adds a vibrant, crunchy texture to your meal. Lightly stir-fried with garlic and a splash of soy sauce, bok choy offers a subtle, peppery bite that enhances the Asian flavors of teriyaki pork tenderloin, making it a fitting and nutritious addition to the dish.