Hi, I’m Lina. As a busy mom, I rely on recipes that feel comforting without needing hours in the kitchen. This dish is one of my easy weeknight favorites, simple, warm, and full of flavor. If you love homey food that brings everyone to the table, this recipe will be perfect for you.
A Fresh Twist on Classic Pasta
There’s something special about the way pesto brings everything to life, it’s bright, herby, and full of flavor. Add tender slices of juicy steak and bursts of sweet cherry tomatoes, and you’ve got the ultimate weeknight meal: Steak Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes.
This dish hits that perfect balance between hearty and fresh. The steak gives richness, the pesto adds a punch of basil and garlic, and the tomatoes bring sweetness that ties it all together. Best of all, it’s ready in about 25 minutes, a family favorite that feels like it came straight out of a cozy Italian café.
If you enjoy this recipe, you’ll also love SoolFood favorites like Beef and Noodles – A Comforting Classic or Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe, both full of satisfying, simple flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and flavorful: The basil pesto and tomatoes make every bite vibrant.
- Quick and simple: 25 minutes, one pan, and dinner is done.
- Protein-packed comfort: Tender steak makes it feel hearty and filling.
- Perfect for leftovers: It’s just as good cold the next day!
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 lb flank or sirloin steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or linguine
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Pesto Sauce:
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil, cook pasta until al dente, and reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the steak: Pat steak dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, add olive oil and the halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the pesto, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water to create a creamy coating.
- Combine: Toss in the cooked pasta and sliced steak. Mix well until everything is coated in pesto sauce.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with lemon juice, top with extra Parmesan, and garnish with basil. Serve warm.
Lina’s Kitchen Tips
- Use good pesto: If using store-bought, choose one with real basil and olive oil for the freshest taste.
- Add color: Use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for a pretty presentation.
- Grill option: This steak tastes amazing cooked on the grill for extra smoky flavor.
- Meal prep tip: Store in the fridge for up to three days, the pesto flavor deepens overnight!
This Steak Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes is one of those meals that everyone loves, comforting yet bright, simple but packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want something special without turning on the oven.
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Steak Pesto Pasta with Tomatoes: Fresh, Flavorful & Comforting
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy steak, vibrant basil pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes tossed with pasta for a fresh, flavorful, and comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
1 lb flank or sirloin steak
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
12 oz pasta (penne or linguine)
½ cup basil pesto
2 tbsp olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tsp lemon juice
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Boil pasta until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Season steak with salt, pepper, and garlic; sear 3–4 min per side.
3. Slice steak thinly and set aside.
4. Sauté cherry tomatoes in olive oil until soft.
5. Add pesto, Parmesan, and pasta water; toss to combine.
6. Add pasta and steak; coat in sauce and serve.
Notes
Use high-quality pesto for best flavor.
Add lemon juice at the end for brightness.
Store leftovers for up to three days; flavors deepen overnight.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian