Bistec en Salsa with Pineapple and Olives

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender beef strips simmered in a sweet-tangy sauce with fresh pineapple and briny olives for a vibrant Puerto Rican twist. This puerto rican-inspired beef ready in about 45 minutes blends thinly sliced beef sirloin, fresh or canned pineapple chunks, pitted green olives into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Puerto Rican cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 1 lb thinly sliced beef sirloin with 1/2 tsp salt and let sit for 5 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add beef and sear for 2 minutes per side until browned, then remove and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in 1/2 cup diced tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Step 3: Return beef to the skillet, add 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks, 1/2 cup pitted green olives, 1/2 cup white wine, and 1/4 tsp cumin. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until beef is tender and sauce thickens slightly.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Bistec en Salsa with Pineapple and Olives take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Bistec en Salsa with Pineapple and Olives?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Bistec en Salsa with Pineapple and Olives?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Bistec en Salsa with Pineapple and Olives for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Bistec en Salsa with Pineapple and Olives?

Puerto Rican beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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