Involtini di Manzo with Tomato and Basil Sauce

Ingredients

• 8 thin slices of beef (approximately 500g / 1.1 lb) 8 thin slices of beef (approximately 500g / 1.1 lb)
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes 1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 18g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (4g sugars)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Lay the beef slices flat and divide the breadcrumb mixture evenly among them, spreading it over the surface of each slice.
3. 3.
   Roll up each slice tightly and secure with toothpicks.
4. 4.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef rolls and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
6. 6.
   Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Return the beef rolls to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
8. 8.
   Remove the toothpicks from the beef rolls before serving.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with the tomato and basil sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — Choose thin slices of beef that are suitable for rolling. If you can't find pre-sliced beef, you can ask your butcher to slice it for you.
• Breadcrumbs — You can use fresh breadcrumbs or store-bought ones. If using store-bought, opt for plain breadcrumbs without any added seasonings.
• Parmesan cheese — Grate the Parmesan cheese yourself for the best flavor. Avoid using pre-grated cheese as it may contain additives.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the beef rolls easier to roll and secure, you can lightly pound the beef slices with a meat mallet to flatten them.
• If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce before simmering.
• If you don't have toothpicks, you can use kitchen twine to secure the beef rolls.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Involtini di Manzo with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to soak up the delicious tomato and basil sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Involtini di Manzo on a serving platter, spooning the tomato and basil sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Serve with a side of pasta or roasted vegetables to create an appealing and satisfying presentation.