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Beef and Blue Cheese Penne with Pesto

Unique and simple to prepare, this delicious dish is filled with fresh flavors, and it’s as healthy as it is hearty. Best of all, it takes just 30 minutes to set this meal on the table.

—FRANCES PIETSCH FLOWER MOUND, TX



START TO FINISH: 30 MIN. • MAKES: 4 SERVINGS


2 cups uncooked whole wheat penne pasta

2 beef tenderloin steaks (6 ounces each)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

6 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped

2 cups grape tomatoes, halved

5 tablespoons prepared pesto

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese

1. Cook pasta according to the package directions.

2. Meanwhile, sprinkle steaks with salt and pepper. Grill, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat 5-7 minutes on each side or until meat reaches desired doneness (for medium-rare, a thermometer should read 145°; medium, 160°; well-done, 170°).

3. Drain pasta and transfer to a bowl. Add the spinach, tomatoes, pesto and walnuts; toss to coat. Thinly slice steaks. Divide pasta mixture among four serving plates. Top with beef; sprinkle with cheese.