Secrets Revealed: Learn the Culinary Art of Stuffing Flank Steak with Spinach and Provolone

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering guide on how to cook flank steak stuffed with spinach and provolone. This delectable dish is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave an unforgettable impression on your palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step recipe will empower you to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning diners.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

• 1 flank steak (1.5-2 pounds)
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Tools: The Culinary Arsenal

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Kitchen twine
• Cast iron skillet or grill pan

Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak

• Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the steak.
• With the knife parallel to the cutting board, carefully cut a horizontal slit along the length of the steak, about 3/4 of the way through.

Step 2: Make the Spinach and Cheese Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Flank Steak

• Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the opened flank steak.
• Roll up the steak tightly, starting from one end and working towards the other.
• Secure the roll with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals.

Step 4: Sear the Stuffed Flank Steak

• Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the stuffed flank steak to the pan and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 5: Roast the Stuffed Flank Steak

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the seared stuffed flank steak to a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

• Remove the stuffed flank steak from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Slice the steak against the grain into thin slices.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

• Arrange the sliced stuffed flank steak on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Pairing Suggestions: Enhancing the Experience

• Wine: Pair your stuffed flank steak with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to complement its rich flavors.
• Sides: Roasted asparagus, grilled corn on the cob, or creamy polenta are excellent side dishes that will balance the savory flavors of the steak.

Tips for Perfection: Mastering the Art

• To ensure the spinach does not wilt, squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• If you don’t have kitchen twine, you can use toothpicks to secure the stuffed flank steak.
• Let the steak rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use other types of cheese in the filling?
Yes, you can substitute provolone with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese.

2. Can I cook the stuffed flank steak on a grill?
Yes, you can grill the stuffed flank steak over indirect heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches the desired doneness.

3. How can I make the filling more flavorful?
Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or crumbled bacon to the spinach and cheese filling for extra umami and richness.

4. What is the best way to reheat the stuffed flank steak?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the leftover steak in foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

5. Can I freeze the stuffed flank steak?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffed flank steak for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.