If you want to stay healthy while enjoying some savory and delicious meals, then cube steak can be an excellent choice for you as it is a lean and low-fat source of protein. Cube steak is a cut of beef that is tenderized by pounding or mechanically processing it with a meat tenderizer, producing a cube-shaped pattern. Here we bring you some tasty and healthy cube steak recipes that are easy to make and perfect for your whole family. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or you want to impress your guests with your culinary skills, these recipes will surely delight your taste buds while keeping your health in check.
What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a popular cut of beef that is also known as minute steak or Swiss steak. This type of steak is made from top or bottom round steak that has been tenderized and flattened by pounding it with a meat tenderizer. The name “cube steak” comes from the indentations or “cubing” left on the meat after this process. This cut of beef is usually quite lean and affordable, making it a popular choice for many households and restaurants.
The Health Benefits of Cube Steak
Cube steak can be a great addition to a healthy diet when prepared properly. It is a good source of high-quality protein, which is important for muscle growth, repair, and maintenance. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. However, cube steak can be high in unhealthy fats and calories if it is prepared with lots of added fats, such as deep-fried or smothered in cream gravy.
The good news is that there are many healthy cube steak recipes available that can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as grilled or baked instead of fried. These recipes often call for leaner cuts of cube steak and include lots of healthy vegetables and flavorings. By choosing healthy cooking methods and ingredients, you can enjoy the great taste of cube steak while also supporting your overall health and wellness.
Why Choose Cube Steak as a Healthy Option?
Cube steak is a lean cut of beef that comes from the round or sirloin of a cow. To create the cube pattern, the meat is tenderized with a meat mallet or machine, which breaks down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender steak. Cube steak is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of healthy recipes, making it a great choice for anyone looking for tasty and nutritious meals.
The Nutritional Value of Cube Steak
Cube steak is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. A single 3-ounce serving of cooked cube steak provides around 24 grams of protein, making it an excellent option for those trying to increase their protein intake. Additionally, cube steak is low in fat, with a 3-ounce serving containing only around 6 grams of total fat, most of which is unsaturated.
Cube steak is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It’s packed with vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy nervous system, and iron, which is essential for producing red blood cells in the body. It also contains zinc, phosphorus, and selenium, which support immunity and overall health.
Cube Steak Recipes: Simple and Healthy
Cube steak is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of healthy recipes. Below are a few simple and healthy recipes that use cube steak:
- Grilled Cube Steak Salad: Grill a cube steak until cooked through, slice, and serve over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite veggies and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
- Cube Steak Stir-Fry: Slice a cube steak into thin strips and stir-fry in a wok or skillet with your favorite veggies (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and onions) and a simple soy sauce and ginger sauce.
- Cube Steak and Sweet Potato Mash: Grill or pan-fry a cube steak and serve with a side of mashed sweet potatoes (simply boil sweet potatoes until tender, mash with a little bit of butter and salt, and serve).
- Cube Steak Tacos: Season a cube steak with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, pan-fry until cooked through, slice, and serve in a taco shell with diced tomato, shredded lettuce, and avocado.
Cube steak is a delicious and nutritious ingredient that can fit into any healthy eating plan. By choosing cube steak as a protein option, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that’s also good for you!
Top 3 Healthy Cube Steak Recipes
Cube steak is a great option to incorporate into your healthy diet. It is a lean cut of meat that is perfect for those who are looking for a high-protein, low-fat meal. There are many different ways to prepare cube steak, but here are the top three healthy cube steak recipes:
Grilled Cube Steak with Avocado Salsa
This recipe is perfect for those who love a little bit of spice in their meals. To make the avocado salsa, simply combine diced avocado, jalapeno, red onion, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Grill the cube steak for 5-6 minutes on each side until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Serve the steak with the avocado salsa on top for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Baked Cube Steak with Mushroom Sauce
This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a cozy and comforting meal. To make the mushroom sauce, sauté sliced mushrooms, garlic, and shallots in a pan until they are softened. Add in some beef broth, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Bake the cube steak in the oven at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes, or until it is cooked through. Serve the steak with the mushroom sauce on top for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Skillet Cube Steak with Homemade Marinade
This recipe is perfect for those who are short on time but still want a flavorful meal. To make the marinade, mix together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour the marinade over the cube steak and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Heat up a skillet on medium-high heat and cook the cube steak for 3-4 minutes on each side until it is cooked through. Serve with your favorite sides for a quick and healthy meal.
How to Prepare Cube Steak for Cooking
Cube steak is a thin cut of beef that has been mechanically tenderized, making it an ideal choice for quick and easy weeknight meals. Properly preparing cube steak for cooking can go a long way in ensuring a delicious and tender final product. Here are some easy tips on how to get the most out of your cube steak:
Seasoning
Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavor of cube steak. A simple salt and pepper seasoning is enough to elevate the flavor of the meat. However, you can also experiment with other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a steak seasoning blend. Massage the seasoning into the meat on both sides, using your hands to make sure it’s evenly distributed.
Marinating
Marinating can also add an extra layer of flavor to cube steak. A marinade can be as simple as olive oil and garlic, or you can use a more complex mixture of spices and herbs. Place your cube steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag with the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for optimal flavor.
Tenderizing
Cube steak is already mechanically tenderized, but there are a few extra steps you can take to ensure it’s as tender as possible. One method is to lightly pound the meat with a meat mallet to break down any remaining tough fibers. You can also use a meat tenderizer tool that has multiple blades to further break down the meat. Another option is to soak the meat in a mixture of milk and egg, which can help to tenderize it further.
Cooking Methods
Cube steak can be cooked in a variety of ways including pan-frying, broiling, and grilling. When pan-frying, use a non-stick pan and cook over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked through. If broiling or grilling, use high heat and cook for a few minutes on each side until browned. Be careful not to overcook the meat as it can dry out easily.
With these easy tips, you can prepare and cook cube steak to perfection, resulting in a delicious and healthy meal. Whether you choose to season, marinate, tenderize or all of the above, you can’t go wrong with this versatile cut of meat.
Healthy Side Dishes to Serve with Cube Steak
A well-grilled cube steak is a delicious meal on its own, but it’s even better when served with healthy and flavorful side dishes. Whether you’re serving it to your family, guests, or just for yourself, there are plenty of side dish options that will complete your meal. Here are some of the best healthy side dishes to pair with your cube steak:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are nutritious, flavorful, and easy to make. They can be paired with any meat dish, including cube steak. Some of the best vegetables for roasting include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they are tender and golden brown. The result is a colorful plate of veggies that will complement your cube steak perfectly.
Quinoa Pilaf
If you want to add some whole grains to your meal, quinoa pilaf is an excellent choice. Quinoa is high in protein, fiber, and many essential nutrients. To make quinoa pilaf, cook quinoa according to the package instructions and add some sautéed onions, garlic, and other vegetables such as mushrooms, peas, and bell peppers. You can also add some nuts, such as chopped almonds or walnuts, for a crunchy texture. Quinoa pilaf is a healthy and satisfying side dish that pairs well with cube steak.
Sweet Potato Mash
If you’re looking for a side dish that is both sweet and savory, sweet potato mash is for you. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, and potassium. To make sweet potato mash, boil sweet potatoes until they are soft and mash them with a fork or a potato masher. Add some salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil, and you’ll have a creamy and flavorful side dish that complements the bold flavor of cube steak.
Grilled Asparagus
Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable that can be grilled to perfection. Grilled asparagus is a simple yet tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with cube steak. Simply toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill it for a few minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred. The result is a flavorful and healthy side dish that will elevate your cube steak to the next level.
Cauliflower Rice
If you’re looking for a low-carb side dish to serve with cube steak, cauliflower rice is a fantastic option. Cauliflower rice is a healthy and nutritious substitute for traditional rice. To make cauliflower rice, pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until it resembles rice grains. Sauté the cauliflower rice with some garlic, onions, and other vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper, and you’ll have a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with cube steak.
Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Cube Steak Recipes
Cube steak is a tenderized piece of beef that is perfect for creating delicious and healthy meals. With its unique texture and flavor, it’s easy to see why cube steak has become a favorite among health-conscious individuals. Here are some frequently asked questions about healthy cube steak recipes:
What is the best way to cook cube steak?
While cube steak can be cooked in a variety of ways, the best method is to pan-fry it. Simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Season the cube steak with your favorite spices and place it in the skillet. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is browned and cooked through.
What are some healthy side dishes to serve with cube steak?
There are many healthy side dishes that pair well with cube steak. Some popular choices include roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, sweet potato fries, and a mixed green salad. These options are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a great addition to any healthy meal.
Can I use a different cut of beef in place of cube steak?
Yes, there are several other cuts of beef that can be used in place of cube steak. Some good alternatives include sirloin steak and strip steak. These cuts are lean, tender, and packed with flavor, and they work well in a variety of healthy recipes.
How can I make my cube steak more flavorful?
There are several ways to add flavor to your cube steak. One easy method is to marinate it for several hours in a mixture of your favorite herbs and spices. Another option is to top the steak with a flavorful sauce or gravy, such as a mushroom sauce or a red wine sauce. Finally, you can also season the steak with a bit of sea salt and cracked pepper before cooking to enhance its natural flavor.
Is cube steak a good source of protein?
Yes, cube steak is an excellent source of protein, with one 3-ounce serving containing approximately 23 grams of protein. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair muscle tissue, and it also keeps you feeling full and satisfied after meals.
Can I make healthy cube steak recipes in a slow cooker?
Yes, a slow cooker is a great way to make healthy cube steak recipes. Simply add the steak to the slow cooker along with your favorite vegetables and spices, and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method results in a tender and flavorful meal that requires very little effort or prep time.
Thanks for Sticking Around!
Who knew cube steak could be so delicious and healthy at the same time? We hope you’ve enjoyed reading through these healthy cube steak recipes as much as we did compiling them. Keep experimenting in the kitchen and don’t be afraid to try out new ingredients and cooking methods to make your meals even healthier. As always, thank you for visiting our site and come back soon for more amazing recipes!