Tuscan-Style Steak

Cooks Illustrated magazine has some wonderful recipes, albeit sometimes they seem a bit difficult or take too long to make. I recently saw this recipe for Tuscan-style steak and I have to say it's delicious. The best part is that it only takes about 30 to 40 minutes to make, including all the prep time. For the best results, use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and genuine Parmesan cheese. The greens may be washed and dried up to a day ahead of time, but the vinaigrette should be made the same day for the best flavor. If you can't find arugula, you can use fresh spinach. Serve a crusty loaf of bread alongside to sop up any remaining juices from the steak.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4)

• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon juice from 1 lemon
• 2 medium cloves garlic, minced or pressed through a garlic press (about 2 teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano leaves
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 4 boneless strip steaks, 1 to 1 1/4 inches thick (8 to 10 ounces each), trimmed of exterior gristle and patted dried with paper towels
• 8 cups loosely packed arugula
• 3 ounces Parmesan cheese, cut into thin shavings

DIRECTIONS

1. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, oregano, and a pinch each of salt and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until smoking. Meanwhile, season the steaks liberally with salt and pepper. Lay the steaks in the pan and cook, without moving, until a well-browned crust forms, about 5 to 6 minutes. Using tongs, flip the steaks. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook 5 to 6 minutes for medium-rare (125 degrees) or to your preference. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board, tent with aluminum foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the arugula evenly among 4 individual plates. Cut each steak crosswise into thin strips and arrange the steak over the arugula. Drizzle any juices that collected from the meat over the greens. Rewhisk the dressing and drizzle it over the steak and greens. Sprinkle with the Parmesan and serve immediately.