Description
Zesty Steak Pasta is a vibrant and quick dinner option combining tender, seared steak with flavorful garlic, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers tossed with spaghetti and a bright lemon zest finish. This easy-to-make dish balances rich umami flavors and zesty freshness for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb Spaghetti or your choice of pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be substituted)
Protein
- 1 lb Flank steak or sirloin (cut against the grain for tenderness)
Veggies & Flavorings
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced (fresh preferred)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved (seasonal tomatoes can be used)
- 1 piece Bell pepper, sliced (zucchini can be used for lower-carb option)
Seasonings & Fats
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil (avocado oil can be substituted)
- 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 piece Lemon, zest and juice (lime as alternative)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)
- Fresh basil or parsley, to taste (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Steak: Slice flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove steak and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add sliced bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender and tomatoes start to break down.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the steak to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta, lemon zest, and juice. Toss well to combine all ingredients, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if using, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Substitute lime for lemon zest and juice for a slightly sweeter citrus note.
- Choose avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile and higher smoke point.
- Omit Parmesan cheese to make the dish dairy-free.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat level.
- Cut steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
