Beef Tagliata with Arugula and Cherry Tomatoes

Beef tagliata with arugula and cherry tomatoes is a simple and tasty dish, very beloved in Italian cuisine. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

  • 500 g of beef sirloin
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Coarse salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh arugula (about one bunch)
  • Cherry tomatoes (150-200 g)
  • Balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Shavings of Parmesan cheese or Parmesan (optional)

Preparation

  1. Remove the beef sirloin from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking it to allow it to reach room temperature.
  2. Heat a pan or a grill on high heat until it is very hot.
  3. In the meantime, wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Wash and dry the arugula as well.
  4. Massage the meat with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and then season it with coarse salt and a generous grinding of black pepper.
  5. Place the meat on the hot pan or grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the piece and the desired degree of doneness (rare, medium or well done).
  6. Once the desired degree of doneness is reached, transfer the meat to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute inside the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
  7. Slice the meat into about 1 cm thick slices.
  8. On the serving plate, lay a bed of arugula and place the sliced steak on top.
  9. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over and around the meat.
  10. If you wish, drizzle some balsamic vinegar and garnish with shavings of Parmesan or Grana cheese.
  11. Season everything with another drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt and an additional grinding of black pepper if liked.
  12. Serve immediately to enjoy the meat while it is still warm.

Curiosities

Beef tagliata is a way of serving meat typical of Italy, particularly Tuscany. The word “tagliata” refers to the crosswise cutting of the slices against the muscle fibers, a technique that ensures a more tender and easy-to-chew meat. The combination with arugula and raw cherry tomatoes is a fresh and light variant that balances the robustness of the beef.

Beef Tagliata with Arugula and Cherry Tomatoes