Penne with vegetables and beef

Penne with Vegetables and Beef – A Feast of Flavors and Textures

When it comes to pasta dishes, Penne with Vegetables and Beef is a wonderful choice, full of flavor and vibrant colors. This recipe perfectly combines the rich taste of meat with the freshness of vegetables, providing a delicious lunch or dinner that will delight the whole family. Of course, every cook adds a personal touch to their recipes, and I chose to play with mushrooms, adding a special flavor. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful dish!

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the meat:
- 500 g beef (choose a piece with a little fat for a richer taste)
- 3 large onions (preferably yellow for sweetness)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (this ingredient will add an umami note)
- 2 beef cubes Knorr (to enhance the flavor of the meat)
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a touch of freshness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (or other vegetable oil) for sautéing

For the vegetables:
- 200 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or pleurotus are excellent)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (adds a sweet-sour flavor)
- 150 g frozen peas (or fresh if available)
- ½ can corn (about 150 g)
- 100 ml cream (for a creamy sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:
- 350 g penne (tube-shaped pasta is ideal for holding the sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Meat

1. Start by washing the beef well and cutting it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will allow for even cooking.
2. Peel the onions and slice them thinly. It is recommended to use a sharp knife for even slices.
3. In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden and soft.
4. Add the beef cubes, stirring constantly to brown them evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Cooking the Meat

1. After the meat is browned, add the Worcestershire sauce, beef cubes, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
2. Add enough water to cover the meat (about 300 ml) and let it boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, allowing the meat to cook for about 45 minutes until tender. Check occasionally and add water if necessary.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables

1. Meanwhile, clean and slice the mushrooms thinly. In another skillet, add a little oil and heat over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and sauté until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.
3. Add the frozen peas and cream, stirring continuously. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the peas are cooked. Finally, add the corn and let it cook for another 2 minutes.
4. If you want a thicker consistency, you can add a tablespoon of flour mixed with water (like for tomato sauce) and let it boil for a few minutes.

Step 4: Boiling the Pasta

1. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes).
2. After boiling, drain the pasta and immediately add it to the skillet with the meat and vegetables.

Step 5: Assembly

1. Mix all the ingredients well so that the pasta is evenly coated with sauce. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.
2. Finally, drizzle with lemon juice to add a touch of freshness and enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Penne with Vegetables and Beef is best served hot, straight from the skillet. You can sprinkle grated parmesan on top for added flavor or a few fresh parsley leaves for a vibrant look. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry red wine or a refreshing lemonade, ideal for balancing the rich flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe offers a balanced combination of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the pasta, and essential nutrients from the vegetables. Additionally, mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, and peas provide fiber, aiding digestion. Overall, a serving of Penne with Vegetables and Beef has about 600-700 calories, depending on the amount of cream used.

Possible Variations

If you want to personalize the recipe, you can try changing the type of meat to chicken or turkey. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat and add tofu or seitan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice and adds extra fiber.
2. How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a little chili pepper or chili sauce for an extra kick.
3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare all the components a few hours ahead and then assemble them before serving.

Conclusion

Penne with Vegetables and Beef is an ideal choice for a hearty and delicious meal. With simple preparation and accessible ingredients, this recipe will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of joy to your table. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients to create a version that you truly enjoy! Bon appétit!