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steak topped spring vegetable pasta

Pasta Primavera with Steak Strips

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Tongs
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 colander
  • 1 measuring cup
  • 4 Measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounce pasta penne
  • 12 ounce flank steak thinly sliced into strips
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 small red onion thinly sliced
  • 2 clove garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 small zucchini halved and sliced
  • 1 small yellow squash halved and sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup broccoli florets small
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • 1/2 cup pasta cooking water reserved
  • 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoon fresh basil chopped

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  • Pat the steak strips dry and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak strips in a single layer for 2 to 3 minutes until browned but still medium inside, then transfer to a plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter to the skillet, and sauté the red onion for 2 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute until tomatoes just begin to soften.
  • Return the steak and any juices to the pan, add the drained pasta, and toss to combine.
  • Pour in 1/4 to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water and the lemon juice, season with remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and toss until glossy.
  • Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan and basil, and toss once more to coat evenly.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

Slice steak against the grain for tenderness and keep the pan hot to achieve a quick sear without overcooking. Prep all veggies before you start cooking so the stir-fry step moves quickly and the vegetables stay crisp. Use any short pasta you like, but cook it 1 minute shy of al dente since it will finish in the skillet. Adjust the amount of pasta water to create a light, silky sauce that clings to the noodles; add more Parmesan for extra body. If substituting a different steak cut, such as sirloin, reduce cook time slightly. For a creamier version, stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons mascarpone or a splash of heavy cream at the end. Season at the end to taste with salt, lemon, and heat so the flavors pop.
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