Stuffed flank steak pinwheels are a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner at home. This recipe will guide you through the steps of preparing and cooking these mouthwatering pinwheels, filled with a savory filling and wrapped in tender flank steak.
To start, you will need a flank steak that is about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds in weight. Butterfly the steak by making a horizontal cut along one long side, taking care not to cut all the way through. Open up the steak like a book and season both sides with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the flavors of the filling and the steak itself.
Next, prepare the filling by combining ingredients such as spinach, feta cheese, sundried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in a bowl. Mix them well until everything is evenly incorporated. Spread the filling over the surface of the flank steak, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out while cooking.
Now it’s time to roll the steak into a pinwheel shape. Start at one end and tightly roll the steak, making sure to keep the filling inside. Use kitchen twine to tie the roll at regular intervals to secure it. This will help the pinwheels maintain their shape while cooking.
Once the steak is rolled and tied, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the pinwheels in the skillet and sear them on all sides until browned. This will help to lock in the flavors and create a delicious crust. Transfer the pinwheels to a preheated oven and cook them at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
After cooking, let the pinwheels rest for a few minutes before slicing them into thick rounds. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a tender and flavorful bite. Serve the pinwheels with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh salad, and enjoy this impressive dish with your loved ones.
Preparation for stuffed flank steak pinwheels
Before you can start cooking your delicious stuffed flank steak pinwheels, you need to make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools ready. Follow these steps to properly prepare for this recipe:
- First, gather all of the ingredients needed for the recipe, including a flank steak, your choice of stuffing ingredients such as cheese, spinach, and spices, and any additional seasoning or marinade you want to use.
- Next, lay out the flank steak on a clean cutting board or work surface. If necessary, use a meat mallet to tenderize the steak and create an even thickness.
- Season the flank steak with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you desire. This will help to flavor the meat and enhance the overall taste of the pinwheels.
- Once seasoned, spread your desired stuffing ingredients evenly over the surface of the flank steak. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges to ensure the stuffing stays inside when rolling.
- Gently roll up the flank steak from one end, making sure to keep the stuffing inside as you go. Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure the roll and prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
- At this point, you can either marinate the stuffed flank steak in a marinade of your choice for added flavor, or you can proceed to the cooking step.
Now that your stuffed flank steak pinwheels are properly prepared, you are ready to start cooking. Follow the remaining steps of the recipe to finish cooking the pinwheels to perfection.
Getting the ingredients and tools ready
Before you start cooking stuffed flank steak pinwheels, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools:
- Meat mallet
- Plastic wrap
- Sharp knife
- Cooking twine
- Meat thermometer
Gathering all the ingredients and tools beforehand will help streamline the cooking process and ensure that you have everything you need to make these delicious stuffed flank steak pinwheels.
Trimming and pounding the flank steak
Before you can begin rolling your stuffed flank steak pinwheels, you will need to trim and pound the flank steak to create an even thickness and tenderize the meat.
Trimming the flank steak
Start by examining the flank steak for any excess fat or silver skin. Using a sharp knife, carefully trim away any unwanted fat, as it can cause the pinwheels to become greasy when cooked.
Pounding the flank steak
To create an even thickness and tenderize the meat, place the trimmed flank steak between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the steak until it reaches a uniform thickness of about ¼-inch. Be careful not to tear or overly flatten the meat.
Pounding the flank steak not only helps to tenderize the meat but also facilitates the rolling process by making it easier to fold and secure the stuffing inside.
Once you have trimmed and pounded the flank steak, it is ready to be stuffed and rolled with your desired fillings to create delicious stuffed flank steak pinwheels.
Preparing the stuffing mixture
To prepare the stuffing mixture for the stuffed flank steak pinwheels, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Adding flavor with spices and herbs
Season the stuffing mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add additional herbs and spices according to your preference. Common choices include dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until the flavors are well incorporated.
Adjusting the stuffing consistency
If the stuffing mixture seems too dry, you can moisten it by adding a small amount of olive oil or chicken stock. Add the liquid gradually while mixing, until the desired consistency is achieved. The stuffing should be slightly moist and easy to spread on the flank steak.
Once the stuffing mixture is ready, set it aside and move on to the next step of preparing the flank steak for stuffing.
Cooking and serving the stuffed flank steak pinwheels
Once your stuffed flank steak pinwheels are prepared, it’s time to cook them to perfection and serve them for a delicious meal.
1. Preheat your grill or oven to a medium-high heat. If using a grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully place the stuffed flank steak pinwheels onto the grill or into a baking dish if using an oven. Cook for approximately 10 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (65°C) for medium-rare, or 160°F (71°C) for medium. Adjust cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
3. While the pinwheels are cooking, you can prepare a delicious marinade or sauce to enhance the flavors. Some popular options include a garlic and herb butter, a tangy barbecue sauce, or a balsamic glaze.
4. Once cooked to your liking, remove the stuffed flank steak pinwheels from the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy final result.
5. Using a sharp knife, slice the pinwheels into 1-inch thick rounds. The beautiful spiral pattern of the stuffing will be revealed, making for an impressive presentation.
6. Serve the stuffed flank steak pinwheels hot with your favorite side dishes. They pair well with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy the delicious combination of tender flank steak and flavorful stuffing in every bite!
Searing the pinwheels in a hot pan
After assembling the stuffed flank steak pinwheels, it’s time to sear them in a hot pan. Searing will not only lock in the juices but also add a beautiful caramelized crust to the pinwheels. Follow these steps to achieve perfect searing:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Carefully place the stuffed flank steak pinwheels in the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Leave enough space between the pinwheels to allow for even cooking.
- Sear the pinwheels for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Use a pair of tongs to flip them over gently.
- Continue to cook until the desired internal temperature is reached. The USDA recommends cooking beef to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium.
- Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the pinwheels from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Searing the stuffed flank steak pinwheels in a hot pan adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Make sure to monitor the cooking process closely to avoid overcooking and enjoy your deliciously seared pinwheels!
FAQ
How do I prepare the flank steak for pinwheels?
To prepare the flank steak for pinwheels, you need to gently pound the steak to an even thickness. This will help to tenderize the meat and make it easier to roll. You can use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet to pound the steak. Be careful not to pound it too hard, as it can tear the meat. Once the steak is pounded, you can proceed with the stuffing and rolling process.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese instead of feta. While feta provides a tangy and salty flavor that pairs well with the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, you can experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences. Some other good options include goat cheese, blue cheese, or even mozzarella. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other flavors in the dish.
How do I cook the stuffed flank steak pinwheels?
To cook the stuffed flank steak pinwheels, you can either grill them or cook them in a skillet. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the pinwheels for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. If using a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and cook the pinwheels for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking. Make sure to let the pinwheels rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I make stuffed flank steak pinwheels in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed flank steak pinwheels in advance. After rolling the steak and securing it with toothpicks, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can be convenient if you want to save time on the day of cooking or if you’re planning to serve the dish for a special occasion. Just make sure to cover the pinwheels tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to prevent any odors from seeping into the meat.