Indulge in the Savory Delights of Pinwheel Flank Steak

If you’re tired of the same old turkey and ham during the holiday season, it’s time to elevate your festive dinner with a mouthwatering dish that will leave your guests begging for more. Introducing Pinwheel Flank Steak – a showstopping recipe that combines the bold flavors of feta, sundried tomatoes, and spinach stuffed in tender flank steak.

The holiday season can often feel like a blur, with endless parties and events. Amidst the chaos, it’s important to savor every moment and make your meals truly memorable. These Pinwheel Flank Steaks are here to help you do just that. Not only are they visually stunning, but they are also bursting with unique flavors that will impress even the most discerning palate.

Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, the filling for these pinwheels combines the saltiness of feta cheese, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the garlicky goodness of sautéed spinach. The result is a vibrant burst of flavors that perfectly complements the tender flank steak. And let’s not forget the festive touch of red and green colors that make this dish a visual delight.

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its make-ahead friendliness. You can easily prepare the pinwheels in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free dining experience. The process is simple, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Feast

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the core ingredients that make these Pinwheel Flank Steaks truly irresistible:

• Flank steak – This long, lean cut of meat is bursting with flavor and benefits from quick, high-heat cooking.
• Kosher salt + Pepper + Rosemary – Seasoning is key, and the combination of these three ingredients adds depth and richness to the dish.
• Spinach + Garlic – Sautéed spinach and garlic create a flavor powerhouse that will elevate the taste of the pinwheels.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Look for the oil-packed variety in the Italian food aisle of your grocery store. Chop them after draining off excess oil.
• Feta cheese – The saltiness and creaminess of feta cheese bring a delightful tang to the filling.
• Lemon zest – A touch of bright citrus zest balances the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
• Balsamic glaze – Drizzle this sweet and tangy glaze over the pinwheels for a perfect finishing touch.
• Butcher’s twine – This handy tool helps secure the pinwheels and ensure they cook evenly.

How to Create Perfect Pinwheel Flank Steaks

Now that we’ve explored the ingredients, it’s time to embark on the culinary journey of crafting these delectable pinwheels. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Butterfly the steak – Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal cut through the middle of the steak, leaving about ½ inch intact. Open up the steak and flatten it.
2. Pound to an even thickness – Cover the steak with parchment or wax paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it to a uniform thickness of ¼ to ½ inch.
3. Season – Sprinkle the steak evenly with salt, pepper, and rosemary on both sides. Allow it to rest while you prepare the filling.

4. Sauté spinach – Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add pepper flakes and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Gently squeeze the mixture to remove excess moisture.
5. Mix the filling – In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon zest. Set aside.

6. Fill the steak – Place the steak with the grain running horizontally in front of you. Spread the feta mixture over the steak, leaving a small edge. Trim any torn or irregular edges if necessary.
7. Roll and freeze – Roll the steak tightly over the filling and wrap it in plastic wrap. Freeze for 15 minutes to facilitate slicing.

8. Wrap and slice – Remove the plastic wrap from the chilled steak. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place butcher’s twine in the center of the roll and tie it tightly. Add more twine, spacing each tie 2-2.5 inches apart. Slice the steak into 7-8 pieces.

9. Sear then bake – Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over high heat. Brown the pinwheels on each side for about 2 minutes. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-9 minutes, or until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees for a perfect medium.

10. Rest and serve – Let the pinwheels rest for 10 minutes before indulging. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for a Flawless Culinary Experience

• Building a good relationship with your local butcher can make this recipe even more convenient. They can butterfly the steak for you and might even provide butcher’s twine.
• Invest in a sharp knife for clean and precise slicing. A bread knife or a chef’s knife are excellent options.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked pinwheels. Aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees for tender and juicy results.
• If you’re unsure about the different grades of beef, the USDA Grades of Beef guide can help you navigate the meat section at your grocery store.

Storing Your Beef Pinwheels

These pinwheels can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for holiday parties. If left at room temperature, they can be served for up to 2 hours. After that, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Preparing Ahead and Reheating

Do you want to get a head start on your festive feast? Prepare the pinwheels up to step 7, then refrigerate instead of freezing. They can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking.

If you have any leftovers, don’t fret. Reheating the pinwheels is a breeze. Simply pop them into an air fryer at 390 degrees for about 6 minutes, and they will be just as delicious as when you first baked them.

Perfect Pairings for Your Pinwheel Flank Steaks

To complete your culinary masterpiece, consider adding some delectable side dishes that beautifully complement the flavors of the pinwheels. Cheesy Potato Casserole, Sauteed Green Beans, Honey Carrot Saute, or Air Fried Asparagus with Breadcrumbs are all excellent choices. And don’t forget to include a refreshing salad like That Good Salad, an Autumn Salad, or a Creamy Caesar Dressing salad to balance out the richness of the main course.

More Holiday Beef Delights and Fun Facts

If you’re craving more beefy goodness during the holiday season, we’ve got you covered. Our Easy Prime Rib Roast, Beef Short Ribs, and classic Surf and Turf recipes are all perfect for celebrating special occasions.

It’s worth noting that today’s beef farmers and ranchers are committed to sustainable practices that benefit our planet. In fact, America’s beef farming industry has one of the smallest carbon footprints globally – 10 to 50 times lower than some other nations.

To learn more about the 17,000 beef farming families in Ohio and to explore beef nutrition facts, cooking tips, recipes, and the fascinating stories of Ohio’s beef farming communities, visit Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ. You’ll discover how modern technology and traditional farming techniques come together to produce the flavorful beef that graces your table.

So, why settle for ordinary when you can indulge in the extraordinary? Treat yourself and your loved ones to the tantalizing flavors of Pinwheel Flank Steak, and create unforgettable memories with every bite.