Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut meat into six serving-size pieces; pound to 1/4-in. thickness.
- Combine the vegetables, Parmesan cheese and seasonings; place 1/3 cup in the center of each piece. Roll meat up around filling; secure with toothpicks.
- In a large skillet, brown roll-ups in oil over medium-high heat.
- Transfer to a 5-qt. slow cooker; top with spaghetti sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until meat is tender.
- Discard toothpicks. Serve roll-ups and sauce over spaghetti. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Yield: 6 servings.
For Nutritional And Health Benefits
The beef round steak used in this recipe is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for the growth and repair of our body's muscles. This meat is rich in zinc and iron, which help combat anemia and strengthen the immune system. The special feature of this dish is the inclusion of various colorful vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, which not only provide vitamins A and C but also supply the body with essential antioxidants that protect cells from damage. The use of garlic and onions improves heart health and helps maintain balanced blood pressure. When viewed as part of a balanced diet, this dish offers a superb combination of low-fat protein and fibrous vegetables that helps keep weight in check and promotes a lasting feeling of fullness.
For Pro Tips And Substitute Ingredients
To make this dish extremely tender and flavorful, it's essential to pound the meat well, because beef round steak is a bit tough and pounding it breaks down its fibers, allowing the spices to penetrate deeply. Lightly searing the meat in a pan over high heat before cooking it on low heat is a secret technique that locks in the juices and gives it a beautiful color. People often forget to remove the toothpick or overcook the meat, making it dry, so it's important to keep track of the timing. If you want to make this recipe even healthier, use olive oil instead of regular vegetable oil and opt for homemade low-salt tomato sauce instead of traditional pasta sauce. Additionally, whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles can be used instead of regular pasta.
For Serving And Storing
These carefully prepared beef rolls are an excellent choice when served hot with boiled pasta or brown rice. A fresh green salad drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil further enhances the flavor of the dish. If serving to guests, you can also offer garlic bread or roasted vegetables on the side. If there are leftovers, seal them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for three to four days. When reheating, use the oven or a stovetop on low heat and add a little water or tomato juice to keep the meat from drying out and to maintain its tenderness. Avoid heating it in the microwave, as this can make the meat tough. Gently reheating it on the stove restores its original flavor and aroma, just like freshly cooked food.
