Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo
Introduction
Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo is a delicious and hearty meal that combines tender steak with creamy pasta. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. The flavors of the juicy flank steak and the creamy orzo come together beautifully, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of steak and orzo makes it a filling and satisfying meal. Plus, the creamy sauce is packed with flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes and spices. It’s a dish everyone will love!
How to Make Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo
Making Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo requires just a few steps. Here’s how you do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, packed in olive oil and drained
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 5 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup half-and-half
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add the olive oil and the flank steak.
- Cook the steak for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest before slicing against the grain.
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, and add the uncooked orzo and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
- Stir in the fresh spinach, half-and-half, and red pepper flakes if you are using them.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme.
How to Serve Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo
Serve Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo on a large plate. You can place the sliced steak on top of the creamy orzo. Make sure to drizzle some of the creamy sauce over the steak to enhance the flavor. Add a sprig of fresh thyme for a nice touch.
How to Store Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo
To store any leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Tips to Make Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo
- Make sure to let the steak rest before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the orzo for added texture and flavor.
Variation
If you want to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the flank steak with grilled veggies or chickpeas. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if my flank steak is cooked properly?
You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, it should be about 135°F. For medium, aim for 145°F.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! You can substitute orzo with small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you prefer.
3. Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes?
While they add great flavor, you can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes or omit them altogether if you prefer a simpler taste.
Flank Steak with Creamy Orzo is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe!
