Gabriella D'AgostinoThis article details a delectable steak and pasta recipe, a harmonious blend of savory steak and satisfying pasta. The recipe offers a balanced meal, combining protein and carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs, allowing for customization with different sauces and vegetables. This comprehensive guide will cover ingredients, instructions, nutritional information, helpful tips, and frequently asked questions to ensure a successful culinary experience. The recipe’s versatility makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The steak and pasta recipe presented here emphasizes simplicity and deliciousness. The core componentssteak and pastaoffer a foundational flavor profile that can be elevated through careful ingredient selection and preparation. Proper cooking techniques are vital to ensure both the steak and pasta reach their optimal texture and taste. This recipe allows for creativity in terms of additions, creating endless variations. The focus is on achieving a balanced and satisfying meal, while ensuring ease of preparation.
This recipe’s balance of protein and carbohydrates makes it a hearty and nutritious meal option. The steak provides essential iron and protein, while the pasta contributes complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Adjusting portion sizes allows for calorie control, making this recipe suitable for various dietary needs.
Ingredients for a Steak and Pasta Recipe
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, trimmed
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your preferred shape)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Your choice of steak seasoning (e.g., salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder)
Instructions for this Steak and Pasta Recipe
- Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen steak seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes to the same skillet used for the steak. Saut for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic and tomatoes. Toss to combine.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice the rested steak and serve it over the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil.
Recipe Timing and Servings
This steak and pasta recipe is a relatively quick meal to prepare, taking approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, depending on your steak’s preferred doneness. The recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally to increase or decrease the number of servings.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 25-35 minutes | 35-45 minutes | 4 |
Nutritional Information for this Steak and Pasta Recipe
The nutritional content of this steak and pasta recipe varies depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, it is generally a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and iron. The recipe is also a source of vitamins and minerals found in the garlic, tomatoes, and basil.
A detailed nutritional breakdown would require specific ingredient information (e.g., brand, fat content) and precise measurements used in preparing this dish. Utilizing a nutrition calculator with these specifics would allow for a precise analysis.
Tips for Cooking this Steak and Pasta Recipe
These tips aim to improve the overall culinary experience of the steak and pasta recipe. Proper execution of each step ensures a balanced and flavorful final product.
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Let the steak rest:
Allowing the steak to rest after cooking is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Resting for at least 5-10 minutes is recommended.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan:
Ensure enough space in the pan for searing the steak. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steaming rather than searing, resulting in a less flavorful and potentially tough steak.
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Use high-quality ingredients:
Opting for high-quality steak and fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the taste of this dish. Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes, for instance, contribute greatly to the overall flavor profile.
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Adjust seasoning to taste:
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preferences. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your signature version of this recipe.
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Cook pasta al dente:
Al dente pasta provides the ideal texture; neither overly soft nor too firm. Ensure the pasta maintains a slight resistance when bitten.
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Consider adding vegetables:
Enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile by adding vegetables like sauted mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. These additions not only improve the taste but also increase the vitamin and mineral content of your meal.
The versatility of this steak and pasta recipe lies in its adaptability. Simple adjustments to the ingredients and cooking techniques can lead to vastly different flavor profiles. From adding different cheeses to experimenting with various pasta shapes, the possibilities are vast.
Mastering this foundational recipe allows for countless creative explorations. This recipe provides a framework, but culinary creativity should always be encouraged. The key is achieving a balance of flavors and textures, producing a satisfying and memorable dish.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Steak and Pasta Recipe
This section aims to address some common concerns and queries related to preparing this delicious steak and pasta recipe successfully.
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Can I use a different type of steak?
Yes, you can use other cuts of steak, such as ribeye, filet mignon, or even flank steak. However, the cooking time will need to be adjusted depending on the thickness and cut of the steak. Thinner cuts cook faster than thicker ones.
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What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
Other types of tomatoes, such as diced tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, can be used as substitutes. However, cherry tomatoes provide a nice burst of sweetness and acidity that complements the richness of the steak and pasta.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it is best served fresh, you can cook the pasta and prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and then combine them just before serving with the cooked steak.
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What kind of pasta works best?
Many pasta shapes pair well with this dish. Penne, rigatoni, rotini, and fusilli are all excellent choices, as their shapes help to hold the sauce.
This steak and pasta recipe represents a harmonious union of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows for customization according to individual preferences and dietary needs.
Ultimately, the success of this recipe hinges on attention to detailfrom ingredient selection to cooking techniques. The goal is to create a balanced, delicious, and satisfying meal. Enjoy!