Experience Italy in Your Kitchen
As global sporting events bring cultures together, the culinary world is no exception. The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand, supported by dedicated beef farmers and ranchers, is on a mission to inspire home cooks to explore Italian flavors without the need for a plane ticket. Partnering with chef and influencer Marcia Smart, the brand is sharing some delectable Italian-inspired recipes that are perfect for both weeknight dinners and watch parties.
The Importance of Flavorful Gatherings
When families and friends congregate around the TV, food plays a pivotal role in enhancing the experience. Chef Marcia Smart emphasizes that, “When people gather around the TV, food becomes part of the experience and leaning into trends and pop culture keeps cooking fun.” Her recipes not only deliver on flavor but also provide high-quality protein, essential for maintaining energy and strength.
Beef Tagliata: A Taste of Italy
One standout recipe is Beef Tagliata, a classic Italian dish that showcases the beauty of simplicity. This dish features a perfectly seared steak, typically a Strip Steak or Boneless Rib-Eye, sliced over a bed of fresh arugula and finished with balsamic vinegar and shaved parmesan cheese. Not only is this dish quick and easy to prepare, but it can also be served family-style, making it perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients for Beef Tagliata
- 1 lb Strip Steak or Boneless Rib-Eye Steak
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over high heat and sear the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your preferred doneness.
- Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- On a serving platter, lay down the arugula, top with sliced steak, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and finish with shaved parmesan.
Quick Beef Ragu: Italian Comfort in Minutes
If you’re looking for something comforting yet quick, Quick Beef Ragu is your answer. This dish is a great way to utilize ground beef, simmered with traditional Italian ingredients to create a rich sauce in just 30 minutes. It pairs beautifully with pasta, polenta, or even spaghetti squash for a lighter option.
Ingredients for Quick Beef Ragu
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve over your choice of pasta, polenta, or spaghetti squash.
Why Choose Beef?
Choosing beef as a protein source not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also provides essential nutrients like iron and protein, which are vital for energy levels. As Chef Marcia Smart notes, “Beef and Italian flavors are always two of the most popular topics in my cooking classes.” This popularity stems from their ability to create hearty meals that satisfy both the palate and the body.
Discover More Recipes
For more Italian-inspired recipes and cooking tips, visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of culinary inspiration designed to help elevate your home cooking experience.
Join the Conversation
What are your favorite Italian-inspired recipes? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We would love to hear how you incorporate Italian flavors into your meals.
By incorporating these delicious recipes into your cooking repertoire, you can create memorable meals that transport your guests straight to Italy, all without leaving your kitchen.
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Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
