Steak Bites and Shrimp: A Surf-and-Turf Delight
If you’re craving a quick and delicious dinner that combines the best of land and sea, look no further than Steak Bites and Shrimp. This dish is the perfect blend of juicy, tender steak and succulent shrimp, marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the steak and shrimp to shine while still delivering an impressive meal that feels indulgent.
With just a few minutes of prep and cooking time, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even as an appetizer at a gathering. The combination of beef and shrimp, known as surf and turf, brings out the best of both worlds, creating a satisfying dish that appeals to a variety of tastes.
Ingredients for Steak Bites and Shrimp
- 1 lb steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized cubes
- ½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Steak Bites and Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. This marinade provides a rich umami flavor that enhances both the steak and shrimp.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak Bites
Add the bite-sized steak cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors. If you have more time, you can let it marinate for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for an even deeper flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Steak Bites
Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the marinated steak cubes in a single layer. Cook the steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and reach your preferred level of doneness (medium-rare, medium, etc.). Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent a good sear on the steak. Once cooked, remove the steak bites from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly, so you’ll only need to sauté them for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Once done, return the steak bites to the skillet.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
With the shrimp and steak now in the skillet, cook them together for an additional 1-2 minutes. This allows the flavors of the steak and shrimp to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is evenly heated.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the steak bites and shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze a bit of citrus over their meal for an extra zesty finish.
Tips for the Perfect Steak Bites and Shrimp
Tip 1: Use a Hot Skillet
Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steak bites. This helps create a nice sear on the steak, locking in the juices and adding flavor. A cast-iron skillet works best for this, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
Tip 2: Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they are ready to be removed from the heat. Overcooking can cause them to become chewy and tough.
Tip 3: Adjust the Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a different flavor profile.
Tip 4: Make It a Full Meal
To turn this surf-and-turf dish into a complete meal, serve it with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, garlic butter rice, or a simple green salad pair beautifully with the steak and shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them first. You can quickly thaw frozen shrimp by placing them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes.
Q: What’s the best steak cut for steak bites?
A: Sirloin or ribeye are great choices for steak bites because they are tender and flavorful. However, you can also use other cuts like strip steak or tenderloin if preferred.
Q: Can I make this dish on the grill?
A: Absolutely! You can grill the steak bites and shrimp separately, then combine them for serving. Just be sure to use skewers for the shrimp to prevent them from falling through the grill grates.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to warm the steak and shrimp gently without overcooking them.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to cook the steak bites and shrimp fresh, you can marinate the steak and prepare the shrimp in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Steak Bites and Shrimp is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together the bold flavors of steak with the delicate sweetness of shrimp. It’s the perfect solution when you want a special dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a quick weeknight meal, this surf-and-turf recipe is sure to satisfy.