Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this vibrant Steak Picado with Potatoes recipe! This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a fantastic homemade meal. Forget complicated techniques; this recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Get ready to experience the joy of delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned. This step can be done while you prepare the steak mixture, saving you valuable time.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
While the potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes and sear on all sides until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Simmer the Steak Picado
Return the steak to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Gently stir in the roasted potatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing them to warm through and absorb some of the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges.
Cooking Tips for the Best Steak Picado:
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak cubes in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the steak. Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as zucchini, carrots, or corn.
Variations:
- Spicy Steak Picado: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Steak Picado with Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Sheet Pan Steak Picado: For an even easier cleanup, roast the potatoes and the steak and vegetables together on a large baking sheet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Steak Picado with Potatoes recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a perfect addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!