Fried Steak With Roasted Pepper Pesto

Roasted red peppers lend a phenomenal smoky-sweet flavor to this succulent fried steak. Sharp Romano cheese and peppery fresh basil add brightness and life, recreating the classic Italian flavors everybody loves. Serve alongside a fresh salad or overtop crisp, steamed green beans, dressed in olive oil and garlic.

Ingredients:

• 1/2  cup seasoned fine dry bread crumbs
• 1/2  cup grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
• 1   egg
• 2   tablespoons water
• 1 1/2  pounds beef cubed steak
•  Salt
•  Ground black pepper
• Olive oil
• 1  12  ounce jar roasted red sweet peppers, drained
• 2/3  cup fresh basil leaves

Directions:

1. In a shallow dish combine bread crumbs and half of the cheese. In another shallow dish beat together egg and the water. Cut meat into eight equal-size portions; lightly sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Dip meat pieces into egg mixture, then crumb mixture; press lightly to coat.

2. In a 12-inch skillet heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in two batches, cook steak about 5 minutes per side, adding more oil as needed. Remove to a serving platter; cover to keep warm. Carefully wipe skillet clean.

3. Meanwhile, for sauce, in a blender or processor combine sweet peppers and the remaining cheese. Process until nearly smooth. Finely chop 1/2 cup of the basil; set aside. Transfer pepper mixture to hot skillet and heat through. Remove from heat. Stir in finely chopped basil. Pour sauce over steaks. Sprinkle with remaining basil.

Source:  allrecipes.com