Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the rich flavors of steak with a fresh, zesty green sauce. This recipe is ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions, showcasing the vibrant tastes of herbs and the comforting sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes. The combination not only pleases the palate but also provides a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this delicious steak dinner in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The green sauce adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory steak beautifully.
• Comforting Side Dish: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide a comforting and slightly sweet base that pairs perfectly with the steak.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out herbs or adjust spices based on your preferences for a personalized touch.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and flavor, this dish is a wholesome choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Skillet or frying pan
• Potato masher or ricer
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping herbs and vegetables quick and easy.
• Skillet or frying pan: A good skillet ensures even cooking for your steak, achieving that perfect sear.
• Potato masher or ricer: This tool helps create smooth and creamy mashed sweet potatoes without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Steak

• 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (8 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Green Sauce

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, packed
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or basil)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

How to Make Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

While the sweet potatoes are cooking, season your steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the steaks. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.

Step 3: Make the Green Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine parsley, cilantro, oregano (or basil), lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, apple vinegar, minced garlic, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Once tender, drain the sweet potatoes. Return them to the pot and add unsalted butter (or olive oil) along with heavy cream (or coconut milk). Use a potato masher or ricer to mash until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Plate your steak alongside generous servings of mashed sweet potatoes. Drizzle with green sauce over the steak for added flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Serving Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that complement its flavors.

Fresh Salad

• A light, mixed greens salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the steak and sweet potatoes.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled bring a smoky flavor that enhances the meal.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices on the side provide a rich texture that pairs beautifully with both the steak and sweet potatoes.

Herb Butter

• A dollop of herb-infused butter melted over the steak adds an additional layer of flavor and richness.

Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges can brighten up each bite of steak, adding a zesty contrast to the savory dish.

How to Perfect Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

To achieve the best results when making Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled steaks for better flavor and tenderness. Ribeye or sirloin works best.
• Preheat Your Grill or Pan: Ensure your cooking surface is hot before adding the steak. This helps achieve a nice sear and lock in juices.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the green sauce before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or acidity as needed for balance.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs in your green sauce elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Don’t substitute dried herbs for this recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Pairing your Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes with complementary side dishes enhances your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic make a delightful contrast to the creamy sweet potatoes.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs offers a light yet satisfying side.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice provides a healthy option that brings vibrant color to your plate.
4. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds an indulgent touch perfect for soaking up any leftover green sauce from the plate.
5. Baked Asparagus: Lightly seasoned baked asparagus provides a tender yet crisp texture that complements the main dish perfectly.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from shredded cabbage and carrots brings freshness and crunch alongside the hearty steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Ignoring meat temperature: Cooking steak at the wrong temperature can lead to overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Over-seasoning the sauce: Adding too much salt or vinegar can overpower the dish. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
• Not letting the steak rest: Skipping this step can result in dry meat. Let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
• Rushing the sweet potatoes: If you don’t cook sweet potatoes long enough, they will be hard. Ensure they are tender by testing with a fork before mashing.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Fresh herbs are key for a vibrant green sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover steak and mashed sweet potatoes in airtight containers.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place steak and sweet potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes), checking moisture levels to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

How do I make the green sauce?

To make the green sauce, blend fresh parsley, cilantro, oregano (or basil), lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and optional chili flakes until smooth.

What kind of steak should I use?

You can use ribeye or sirloin steaks for this recipe as both offer great flavor and tenderness.

Can I use other vegetables instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes! You can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes or even cauliflower for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes?

Feel free to add spices like paprika or swap herbs based on your preference. Additionally, try different vinegars in the sauce for unique flavors.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak and make the green sauce ahead of time. Just mash the sweet potatoes fresh before serving.

Final Thoughts

Steak with Green Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes is not only delicious but also versatile. It combines rich flavors with refreshing notes from the herb sauce, making it perfect for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize it by using your favorite herbs or side dishes!