Tagliatelle with beef tenderloin

Tagliatelle with Beef Tenderloin: An Italian Delicacy at Home

Discover the pleasure of preparing a truly special dish – tagliatelle with beef tenderloin. This recipe is not just about cooking, but about bringing together the authentic flavors of Italian cuisine, transforming dinner into a memorable experience.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

A Brief History

Tagliatelle with beef tenderloin, or 'Tagliatelle con vitello', is a dish that combines Italian culinary tradition with fresh, flavorful ingredients. This recipe reflects the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones, based on simple yet quality ingredients. Over the years, tagliatelle has become a symbol of Italian cuisine, and the combination with beef tenderloin brings a rich and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

- 300 g tagliatelle (durum wheat flour is ideal for better texture)
- 400 g beef tenderloin (for a delicate taste, choose fresh, high-quality meat)
- 200 g tomato sauce (freshly made or canned, without additives)
- 3 garlic cloves (for a strong aroma)
- 1 bunch of fresh basil (its unique aroma will add freshness)
- 1 red onion (for sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper (any color you prefer, for a splash of color)
- 1 chili pepper (optional, depending on preferences)
- 100 g parmesan (for serving, finely grated)
- 200 ml cream (for a creamy sauce)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil or butter (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by chopping the vegetables: slice the red onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cut the beef tenderloin into finger-sized pieces – this way, they will cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

2. Cooking the Beef Tenderloin
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or 50 g of butter over medium heat. Add the pieces of beef tenderloin and the sliced garlic. Begin to sauté, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, until the meat is browned on all sides. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat and give it a juicy texture.

3. Adding the Sauce
Once the beef tenderloin is browned, add the tomato sauce and cream. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify and blend perfectly.

4. Preparing the Vegetables
While the sauce simmers, in the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper. These will add a sweet-bitter note to the dish. If you want a spicier taste, you can add the chopped chili pepper now. Let the vegetables cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Boiling the Tagliatelle
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add a tablespoon of salt. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente. Once ready, drain well, but reserve a few tablespoons of the cooking water – this will help improve the sauce's texture.

6. Combining the Ingredients
Add the drained tagliatelle to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Mix well so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little pasta water to thin it out. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of chili if you want a spicier taste.

7. Serving
Divide the tagliatelle with beef tenderloin onto plates and sprinkle with grated parmesan. A slice of lemon or a few fresh basil leaves can add an elegant touch and a fresh aroma to the dish.

Helpful Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add some black olives or capers to the sauce. Also, if you enjoy a crunchy texture, you can toast some almonds or walnuts and sprinkle them on top.

Nutritional Values (per serving)

- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain tagliatelle offers a richer taste and is a healthier option, high in fiber.

What other variations can I try?
If you want to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef tenderloin with mushrooms or tofu, and the sauce can be enriched with fresh spinach or zucchini.

What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine or a citrus-based aperitif would perfectly complement the flavors of the dish. Additionally, an iced tea with lemon can provide a refreshing note.

A Personal Note

This recipe for tagliatelle with beef tenderloin reminds me of Sunday family meals when we would all gather to enjoy delicious dishes. By cooking this recipe, you not only enjoy a tasty dish but also special moments with loved ones. So take your time to enjoy the cooking process and the aroma of fresh ingredients!

Savor this simple yet delicious recipe and turn every meal into a little celebration!