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Pesto Parmesan Make-Ahead Beef & Broccoli Noodles with Quick-Pickled Onion, an original WorkLife Meal Plan recipe

High Protein

Pesto Parmesan Make-Ahead Beef & Broccoli Noodles with Quick-Pickled Onion

Basil pesto and nutty Parmesan for instant weeknight appeal. This recipe brings lean beef, broccoli, and whole-grain noodles together faster than takeout, built to prep earlier and finish quickly at dinner time, with a bright, tangy counterpoint. It is designed for dependable prep, familiar groceries, and a calm family dinner.

Takeout-inspired30 minutesFamily favoriteMake aheadBright flavor
Prep20 min
Cook17 min
Serves4
Total37 min
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What you’ll need

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
  • 8 oz whole-grain spaghetti or noodles
  • 5 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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Make it happen

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the noodles until just tender. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain.

  2. 2

    Toss beef with cornstarch and salt. Sear in avocado oil over high heat for 3–4 minutes; transfer.

  3. 3

    Add broccoli, bell pepper, broth, and flavor ingredients. Cover and steam for 4 minutes.

  4. 4

    Return beef and noodles to the skillet. Toss until the sauce clings, adding cooking water as needed. Finish and serve.

  5. 5

    Toss the onion with vinegar and a pinch of salt; let it stand while the meal cooks, then spoon over the top.

Estimated per serving

Nutrition at a glance

Estimates are provided for planning and are not medical advice.

600calories41gprotein9gfiber