Dive into the vibrant flavors of this Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa recipe. This dish brings together succulent steak, al dente penne, and a refreshing pineapple salsa. The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors creates a culinary symphony that is sure to please the palate.
Photos of Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa Recipe
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonplace, you might need to look for fresh pineapple and jalapeño pepper in the produce section. If you don't find fresh pineapple, canned pineapple can be used as a substitute. The flank steak is generally available in the meat section, but if not, skirt steak is a reasonable substitute.
Ingredients for Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa
Flank steak: Known for its rich flavor and tenderness, it serves as the protein base for this dish.
Cooking oil: Used to cook the steak and to bind the salsa ingredients.
Chili powder: Adds a kick of spiciness to both the steak and salsa.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
Pineapple: Gives a sweet and tangy flavor to the salsa.
Jalapeno pepper: Brings a punch of heat to the salsa.
Red onion: Adds a sharp and sweet flavor to the salsa.
Lime juice: Provides a tangy freshness to the salsa.
Cilantro: Offers a unique flavor and aroma to the salsa.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a depth of flavor to the salsa and steak.
Penne: Serves as the hearty and filling base of this pasta dish.
One reader, Kary Camarillo says:
The spicy steak penne pasta with pineapple salsa recipe is a flavor explosion! The juicy steak combined with the zesty pineapple salsa creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The penne pasta ties it all together for a satisfying and delicious meal. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Mastering the Techniques for Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa
How to broil the flank steak: Broiling the steak involves cooking it under direct heat, usually in an oven. It's important to preheat the broiler and place the steak on the top rack, allowing it to cook for about 4 minutes per side until medium rare.
How to make pineapple salsa: This involves combining diced pineapple, jalapeño pepper, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, black pepper, and salt in a bowl. The ingredients should be mixed well to create a flavorful salsa to accompany the steak and pasta.
How to cook penne pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the penne. Cook for about 13 minutes until the pasta is just done, then drain and toss with the prepared salsa and steak.
How To Make Penne with Chili-Rubbed Flank Steak and Pineapple Salsa
Spicy and savory flank steak complemented by a sweet and tangy salsa all come together with penne pasta in this uniquely flavorful dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbflank steak
- ¼cupcooking oil,(plus 1 tsp)
- ¾tspchili powder
- ¾tspsalt
- ½cuppineapple,crushed
- ½jalapeno pepper,(with seeds)
- 1smallred onion
- 1tbsplime juice
- ¼cupcilantro,or parsley, chopped
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- ½lbpenne
Instructions
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Heat the broiler
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Rub the flank steak with the 1 teaspoon oil, ½ teaspoon of the chili powder, and salt.
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Broil the meat for about 4 minutes per side until medium rare.
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Let it rest for 5 minutes and then cut it diagonally into slices
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In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, combine the pineapple, the remaining oil, the jalapeño pepper, onion, lime juice, cilantro, black pepper, some salt, pepper, and the remaining chili powder.
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Stir in the sliced steak
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In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the penne for about 13 minutes until just done.
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Drain and toss with the salsa and steak.
Nutrition
- Calories: 538.80kcal
- Fat: 24.02g
- Saturated Fat: 5.09g
- Trans Fat: 0.05g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.58g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.59g
- Carbohydrates: 47.52g
- Fiber: 2.72g
- Sugar: 4.47g
- Protein: 31.90g
- Cholesterol: 77.11mg
- Sodium: 516.71mg
- Calcium: 53.39mg
- Potassium: 575.11mg
- Iron: 2.73mg
- Vitamin A: 12.57µg
- Vitamin C: 14.66mg
Pro Tip: Elevate Your Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with This Technique
When slicing the flank steak, it's important to cut against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the long strands of muscle, or 'grain', in the meat. This technique breaks up the muscle fibers, making the steak easier to chew and more enjoyable to eat. Additionally, allowing the steak to rest after broiling helps to redistribute the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist steak.
Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Spicy Steak Pasta Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meat, and prepare ingredients in advance to save time during the actual cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for one-pot recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
Invest in kitchen tools: Use tools like a food processor, mandoline, or garlic press to speed up the prep work and save time.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes or adjustments.
Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, saving time during meal preparation.
Use leftovers: Repurpose leftovers into new dishes to save time on cooking from scratch.
Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa Recipe
flank steak - Substitute with skirt steak: Skirt steak has a similar texture and flavor to flank steak, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
cooking oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a great substitute for cooking oil in this recipe.
chili powder - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a similar smoky flavor and mild heat to the dish, making it a good substitute for chili powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can offer a sweet and tangy flavor similar to pineapple, adding a delicious tropical twist to the salsa.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile to jalapenos, making them a suitable substitute for adding spice to the dish.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to red onions, adding a subtle depth to the salsa.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can offer a similar level of acidity and citrusy flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients in the salsa.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, adding a vibrant touch to the dish.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick and depth of flavor similar to black pepper, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
penne - Substitute with fusilli: Fusilli has a similar shape and texture to penne, making it a suitable substitute for this pasta dish.
Elevate Your Plate: Presentation Tips for Spicy Steak Penne Pasta
Elevate the plating: Arrange the penne pasta in a circular motion on the plate, creating a visually appealing base for the dish.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the top of the dish to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a steak centerpiece: Place the sliced flank steak in the center of the pasta, allowing it to be the focal point of the dish.
Incorporate pineapple salsa creatively: Spoon the pineapple salsa around the edge of the plate, creating a vibrant and flavorful border for the dish.
Use fine dining cutlery: Present the dish with high-quality cutlery, such as polished silverware, to enhance the overall dining experience.
Add a touch of elegance with microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the dish to add a touch of elegance and a subtle hint of earthy flavor.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the vibrant colors of the dish, such as a sleek, white plate to allow the colors to pop.
Balance flavors and textures: Ensure each component of the dish is balanced in flavor and texture, creating a harmonious culinary experience for the judges.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spicy Steak Penne Pasta
- Broiler: A kitchen appliance used for cooking food by applying heat from above.
- Cooking oil: A liquid fat used for frying, baking, and other types of cooking.
- Large glass or stainless-steel bowl: A container for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Large pot: A vessel used for boiling, cooking, and preparing pasta or other dishes.
- Knife: A tool used for slicing and cutting ingredients, such as the flank steak and vegetables.
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting the broiled steak.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining cooked pasta.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing and tossing the pasta with the salsa and steak.
Preserving Perfection: Storing and Freezing Spicy Steak Penne Pasta
- Allow the spicy steak penne pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- If you want to freeze the dish, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- When freezing, it's best to store the pineapple salsa separately from the pasta and steak. This will help maintain the texture of the salsa and prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
- To reheat, thaw the frozen pasta and salsa in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the pasta in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen it up.
- Once the pasta is heated, mix in the thawed pineapple salsa and serve immediately.
- If you have leftover steak, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Slice the steak before freezing for easier reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Steak Penne Pasta
Reheat the pasta in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter to prevent the pasta from sticking and to add extra flavor. Stir the pasta frequently until it's heated through and the steak is warm.
For a quick and easy reheat, microwave the spicy steak penne pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is hot and the steak is warmed through.
If you have time, reheat the pasta in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the steak is warm. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a fresh twist, transform your leftover spicy steak penne pasta into a pasta salad. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then toss it with extra pineapple salsa, some chopped fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. This chilled version is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing summer side dish.
If you find that the pineapple salsa has lost some of its vibrancy, freshen it up by adding some newly diced pineapple, jalapeño, and red onion. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dash of lime juice will also help to revive the flavors.
Fascinating Facts About Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa
The recipe for spicy steak penne pasta with pineapple salsa is a fusion of flavors, combining the heat of the chili powder with the sweetness of the pineapple salsa. This dish offers a balance of spicy and tangy flavors, creating a unique and delicious combination. The use of flank steak adds a rich and savory element to the dish, while the pineapple salsa provides a refreshing and tropical twist. This recipe is a perfect example of how contrasting flavors can come together to create a harmonious and satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is Spicy Steak Penne Pasta Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this spicy steak penne pasta with pineapple salsa recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as flank steak, pineapple, and penne, are reasonably priced and widely available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and enjoyable meal for a family. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of affordability and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, making it a budget-friendly option for a flavorful and hearty dinner.
Is This Spicy Steak Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This spicy steak penne pasta with pineapple salsa recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. However, from a nutritional standpoint, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it a healthier meal.
The recipe includes a good source of protein from the flank steak, which is a leaner cut of beef. The pineapple salsa provides a refreshing twist and adds some vitamin C to the dish. The inclusion of onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro also contributes to the overall nutritional value.
On the other hand, the recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and healthy meal. Additionally, the use of cooking oil for both the steak and the salsa increases the overall fat content of the dish.
To enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the salsa or by serving the pasta with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables
- Reduce the amount of cooking oil used for the steak and salsa, or opt for healthier cooking methods such as grilling or broiling
- Choose whole wheat penne pasta instead of regular penne to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates
- Limit the amount of added salt and rely more on the natural flavors of the ingredients, such as the lime juice and fresh herbs, to enhance the taste
By incorporating these changes, you can transform this spicy steak penne pasta with pineapple salsa into a more nutritionally balanced and wholesome meal that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Editor's Take: Thoughts on Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa
The combination of spicy steak, pineapple salsa, and penne pasta creates a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The broiled flank steak brings a robust and savory element, complemented by the sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. The addition of jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro adds a refreshing kick, while the penne pasta serves as a perfect base to soak up all the delicious flavors. This dish offers a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and freshness, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Discover Delicious Alternatives to Spicy Steak Penne Pasta
Appetizers and Desserts: Completing Your Spicy Steak Penne Pasta Menu
Why trust this Spicy Steak Penne Pasta with Pineapple Salsa Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a tantalizing fusion of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The succulent flank steak is expertly seasoned and broiled to perfection, while the pineapple salsa adds a zesty and refreshing twist. The combination of jalapeno pepper and red onion infuses a delightful kick, harmonizing with the tangy lime juice and fragrant cilantro. The al dente penne serves as the ideal canvas for this vibrant dish, creating a symphony of tastes that will undoubtedly tantalize the taste buds. Trust in this recipe for a memorable culinary journey.
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