Beef Steak with Pumpkin Seed Crust and Warm Roasted Tomato Oregano Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F. Place the roma tomatoes cut side up on a small baking tray, add half of the chopped garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Roast for 18 to 20 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and lightly browned at the edges.

2. 2

   While the tomatoes roast, make the crust. In a bowl, combine the pumpkin seeds, remaining chopped garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, red pepper flakes if using, 1 tablespoon parsley, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside.

3. 3

   Pat the beef steaks very dry with paper towels. Season both sides with the remaining salt and black pepper. Let them stand for 10 minutes at room temperature while the tomatoes finish roasting.

4. 4

   Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sear the steaks for 2 minutes on the first side and 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on the second side, until a golden crust forms.

5. 5

   Briefly remove the skillet from the heat. Press the pumpkin seed mixture onto the top of each steak and distribute 2 tablespoons butter in small pieces over the crust and in the skillet.

6. 6

   Transfer the skillet to the oven at 220°C / 425°F for 4 to 6 minutes for medium-rare, or until the center reaches about 57°C / 135°F. Remove the steaks, transfer to a plate, and let them rest for 5 to 7 minutes.

7. 7

   For the sauce, heat a small saucepan or the same cleaned skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and cook the shallot for 2 minutes. Add the roasted tomatoes with their juices, the red wine vinegar, and the fresh oregano. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, gently crushing the tomatoes with a spoon.

8. 8

   Turn off the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the rest of the parsley. Stir until the sauce looks glossy. Taste and adjust salt and black pepper if needed.

9. 9

   Serve each beef steak with a generous spoonful of warm roasted tomato oregano sauce on top or on the side.

10. 10

    If desired, place the steaks under the broiler at 230°C / 450°F for 1 minute before serving to further brown the crust, watching closely so it does not burn.