Caprese Steak Salad

I've made it no secret that my favorite dish in the world is fresh caprese salad. In peak tomato season, it's simply the perfect meal. But occasionally I'm looking for something more substantial. The call of the grill caught me and a balsamic-marinated steak was a tasty addition. And a bit of peppery arugula was just right to balance out the rich steak.

The marinade uses the same ingredients as the traditional caprese dressing, so no special ingredients needed and it only takes a moment.

And a quick grill adds flavor. Tastes like summer.

I always prefer steak on the rare side, but especially so on salads. The last thing you want is the chew of a gray steak on your fresh, crunchy greens.

 Assemble and done.

Isn't she just so gorgeous?

Caprese Steak Salad
1 1/2 lbs tri-tip steaks
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus some for drizzling
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, plus some for drizzling
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
4 cups arugula, washed
3-4 tomatoes, sliced
1 ball fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/4 cup basil, chopped

Whisk together olive oil, balsamic, salt and pepper. Toss steaks in mixture, coating both sides, and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least a few hours.

Preheat grill and remove steak from refrigerator, giving it time to come-up to room temperature. Grill steaks over medium-direct heat until they reach an internal temperature of 120 degrees. They will be rare. Allow steaks to rest for 5-10 minutes before thinly slicing against the grain.

Assemble arugula and top with tomatoes, mozzarella, steak and basil. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper and then drizzle desired amount of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Enjoy!

Caprese

See the ingredients below. We can all guess where this is headed. 

If I had to choose a last meal, perfect caprese would be my final ecstasy. Perfectly ripe beefsteak tomatoes and the best, tangy mozzarella there is to offer. We're not quite to perfect tomato season yet, but I can't wait any longer. Let's enjoy a first for the season. 

Now things are just getting gratuitous. The toothsome cheese longingly absorbs the balsamic in preparation for it's union with ripe, juicy tomato. Basil pleasantly catches them in the act. Cover your eyes kids!

Slice the tomatoes and cheese evenly to ensure each bite.

Triple XXX food porn.

If you're looking to make a meal of things, invite delicious salami and crusty bread to the party. Bonus points if you rub down your warm bread with garlic clove.

Caprese
2-3 ripe tomatoes
1 ball fresh mozzarella, top-quality
Basil, chiffonade
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
S&P

Slice tomato and mozzarella. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to your taste. Sprinkle with S&P and basil.