---
title: Steak & Pesto alla Trapanese
description: With pan-seared squash & lemon-parmesan orzo.
author: Chef Robin Pridgen
servings: 2
time: 30 minutes
prep time: 20 minutes
cook time: 30 minutes
cuisine: Italian
tags:
  - steak
  - pasta
  - orzo
  - pesto
source: /recipe-images/Scan_20260531_144304.jpg
------

== Prep Veggies & Cook Squash ==

Zest and juice HALF of the @lemon{1} [- use the whole lemon if serving 4 -], then cut the remainder into wedges for garnish. Trim the ends from the @yellow squash{1,1/2%cup}(diced into 3/4" pieces).

In a #large sauté pan{}, heat @olive oil{1%tbsp} over medium-high. Add the squash and cook, stirring only once, until deeply browned, ~{4-7%minutes}.

Remove squash to a #serving bowl{}, add HALF of the @garlic{1/2%T}(minced) and a pinch of @salt, then set aside.

== Cook Orzo & Steak ==

Bring a #pot of salted @water{} to a boil. Add @orzo{3/4%cup} and cook for ~{7-10%minutes} until tender, then drain.

In the same pan used for squash, heat @olive oil{1%tbsp} over medium. Pat the @sirloin steaks{2} dry, then season with @salt and @pepper{}. Add steaks to the pan and cook ~{3-6%minutes} per side, or to desired doneness, then remove and let rest.

== Make Pesto ==

In a #food processor{} or blender, pulse to combine the @sliced almonds{2%T} and remaining @garlic{} until almonds are finely chopped.

Add the @cherry tomatoes{1/2%cup} and @basil{2%T} and process for ~{10-15%seconds}. With the food processor running, slowly add @olive oil{2%tbsp}(up to 3 tbsp, or 1/4 cup) until the mixture reaches a pesto consistency. Season to taste.

> Add more oil as necessary if the pesto is too thick.

Add the drained orzo to the #serving bowl{} with the squash, lemon zest, lemon juice, and @parmesan{1%T}(grated). Season to taste and toss to combine.

== Garnish & Gather ==

Slice the steak. Divide the orzo and squash among plates and top with steak. Spoon pesto alla trapanese over the top and garnish with lemon wedges.