Ingredients
Pasta Base
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300 g linguine or spaghetti
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Water for boiling
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Salt for seasoning pasta water
Main Sauce and Beef
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400 g beef sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced across the grain)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
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½ tbsp dried chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp sugar
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500 g fresh tomatoes (diced or cherry tomatoes halved)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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Optional: a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Preparation Tips
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Beef Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice beef thinly across the grain—this keeps it tender.
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Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes offer a sweet-tart flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used for convenience.
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Timing: Chop and measure all ingredients before you start; this is a fast-moving recipe.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
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Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente (usually about 9–11 minutes).
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Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water.
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Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
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Add the sliced beef in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
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Season with salt and pepper.
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Sear each side for 1–2 minutes until browned. Avoid overcooking.
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Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Garlic-Chilli Base
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Lower the heat to medium.
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Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan.
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Sauté the chopped garlic for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
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Add the chilli flakes and stir for another 10–15 seconds, allowing the aroma to bloom.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
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Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute.
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Add the fresh tomatoes and sugar.
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Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and the sauce thickens.
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Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine Everything
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Return the seared beef to the pan.
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Add the drained pasta and toss thoroughly to coat with the sauce.
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If the sauce feels too thick, pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
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Plate the pasta immediately while hot.
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Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired.
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Drizzle lightly with olive oil for a glossy finish.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Thin slices cook fast—1–2 minutes per side is enough.
- Mind the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter, so sauté gently over medium heat.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This water contains starch, helping the sauce cling to the noodles.
- Adjust Heat: Use less chilli for a milder dish, or more if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Substitute Freely: Swap linguine for penne or fusilli if needed. Any pasta shape will work.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes