This recipe brings together the hearty flavors of tender beef and the vibrant taste of homemade basil pesto to create a dish that’s both filling and fresh. The savory beef complements the zesty, herbaceous basil pesto, making this pasta dish an instant favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will keep visitors on the page, savoring each detail.
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye steak, sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Basil Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a variation)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work best)
- Salt for pasta water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to drizzle over pasta)
- Fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan for garnish