Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and impresses your guests? Look no further than this delectable Penne with Steak, Corn, and Arugula! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender flank steak, sweet corn, and peppery arugula, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta for a meal that’s not just satisfying but also bursting with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cups arugula
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat until almost smoking.
- Place the seasoned flank steak in the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness. Remove steak from pan and let rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes.
- In the same pan, add corn kernels and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly charred and heated through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin, diagonal strips.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the drained pasta, corn, and sliced steak. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and toss gently.
- Add fresh arugula on top and gently mix. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Bring the Steak to Room Temperature: For the juiciest results, always let your flank steak sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After cooking, let your steak rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve that perfect al dente texture, keep an eye on your penne and test it a minute or two before the package time is up. Reserve that pasta water—it’s a game changer for creating a silky sauce!
- Sauté the Corn for Extra Flavor: Charring the corn adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; a few minutes in a hot pan can make all the difference.
- Mix Gently: When combining the pasta, steak, and arugula, be gentle to avoid breaking the pasta or wilting the greens too much. You want everything to stay vibrant and fresh.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your dish before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors even more, so don’t be afraid to adjust as needed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 508kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 38mg
