Seared Rib Steak with Arugula

Food & Wine Top Recipes of 2001

Romano served this boldly flavored steak as the centerpiece of his romantic menu because he believes it matches his down-to-earth personality.

Yield: 2 Servings

1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chopped rosemary
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly ground pepper
One 1-pound prime rib-eye steak, about 11/4 inches thick, fat trimmed
6 ounces arugula (salad), large stems discarded
Lemon wedges, for serving

The vinaigrette can be refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before using.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of the olive oil with the chopped rosemary and bring to a simmer over moderate heat. Remove from the heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Strain the oil through a fine sieve and let cool completely; reserve 1/2 teaspoon of the rosemary. Whisk the balsamic vinegar into the oil and season with salt and pepper.

2. In a medium ovenproof skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering. Season the steak with salt and pepper and cook over high heat until well browned on the bottom, about 3 minutes. Turn the steak, transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for about 8 minutes for medium-rare meat. Transfer the steak to a carving board and let rest for 5 minutes.

3. Toss the arugula with 1 tablespoon of the rosemary vinaigrette and mound the salad on 2 dinner plates. Thinly slice the steak crosswise and arrange it over the arugula. Sprinkle each serving with 1/4 teaspoon of rosemary and then drizzle with 1 teaspoon of the rosemary vinaigrette. Refrigerate the remaining vinaigrette for another use. Serve with lemon wedges.

Copyright 2001 Food & Wine - Michael Romano
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