Are you craving a delicious, yet surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This steak and pineapple recipe is a fantastic blend of sweet and savory flavors that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying, making it a winner in our book. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, olive oil, ginger, garlic powder, and pepper. This simple marinade is the key to unlocking incredible flavor in your steak.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the steaks in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steaks from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to your desired doneness.
Step 4: Add the Pineapple
Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened and caramelized. You can also add a splash of the reserved marinade to the pan for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the steak alongside the caramelized pineapple. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with rice or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the steaks in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked steaks every time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Adjust the marinade: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar and honey to your liking.
- Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Grilled Steak and Pineapple: Grill the steaks and pineapple for a smoky flavor.
- Steak and Pineapple Skewers: Cut the steak and pineapple into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers for easy grilling or pan-frying.
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skillet along with the pineapple.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on steak size and cooking method)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe offers a healthy and delicious way to enjoy steak and pineapple. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Try it today and experience the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors!