Spicy Beef and Veggie Rotini Stir-Fry
For those who love a little kick in their meals, this Spicy Beef and Veggie Rotini Stir-Fry is a perfect choice. It combines tender beef strips, colorful vegetables, and a spicy, tangy sauce that clings beautifully to rotini pasta. This dish is quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: It comes together in just about 30 minutes.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with protein, veggies, and just the right amount of spice.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap in your favorite vegetables, or change up the protein as you like.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef strips (sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced) | 1 lb (450g) |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Bell pepper, sliced | 1 (any color) |
| Zucchini, sliced | 1 |
| Snap peas | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Sriracha or chili garlic sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Rotini pasta | 1 lb (450g) |
| Sesame seeds | For garnish |
| Green onions, sliced | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Marinate the Beef: Toss the thinly sliced beef strips with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. The cornstarch helps to tenderize the meat and gives it a nice sear when cooked. Let it sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside. This allows the pasta to cool slightly and prevents it from sticking.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside. High heat is crucial here to get a nice sear without overcooking the meat.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and snap peas for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup soy sauce, sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), honey, and rice vinegar. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables, stirring to coat them evenly. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Beef, Pasta, and Sauce
- Return the cooked beef to the pan along with the drained rotini pasta. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta and beef are well coated with the spicy sauce. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Prep Everything Before Cooking: Stir-frying is a fast cooking method, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start. This includes slicing the beef, chopping the veggies, and mixing the sauce.
- Cook Over High Heat: High heat ensures that the beef gets a quick sear and the veggies stay crisp, retaining their color and nutrients.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to add more or less sriracha depending on how spicy you want the dish. You can also use chili flakes for extra heat.
Customizations and Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking, so it gets crispy.
- Different Vegetables: Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms work well.
- Alternative Protein: Chicken, shrimp, or even pork strips can be used in place of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add a Citrus Twist: For a hint of freshness, add a splash of lime juice or some zest to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the bold flavors of the stir-fry.
- Steamed Rice: Serve this dish over steamed jasmine or brown rice if you want a rice-based meal instead of pasta.
- Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: Pair with crispy egg rolls or spring rolls for a full, restaurant-style meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: While fresh stir-fry is best, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Conclusion
This Spicy Beef and Veggie Rotini Stir-Fry is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that brings together tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a kick of heat. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something satisfying yet easy to make. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a delightful experience, and it’s a great way to pack more veggies into your meals. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to adjust the ingredients to match your taste!
Happy cooking!
