steak salad to change your mood

Nine times out of ten, if I am in a bad mood, it’s because I am hungry. Whether you’re starting to come undone, or you just want to make a satisfying meal to share with someone special, this is a classic combination that is sure to do the trick.

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

PREP: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2

Generously season 2 filets mignons with salt and pepper and allow to come to room temperature (about 30 minutes).

Step 3

MAKE THE HORSERADISH DRESSING: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon horseradish, 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar, and about 2 tablespoons of the reserved shallot oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4

Cut ½ pound (225 g) baby potatoes into halves.

Step 5

COOK: Put the potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing with 1 tablespoon of the reserved shallot oil and plenty of salt and pepper. Roast until deep golden brown, 25 minutes.

Step 6

Heat a skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium-high to high heat— closer to high. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of the reserved shallot oil and swirl it around in the pan. Once it’s shimmering like the ocean receding from the shore after a wave has crashed, it’s time to add your steaks to the pan.

Step 7

Keep it this hot unless the pan really starts to smoke like crazy, then you can turn it down a bit, but definitely turn your exhaust hood on. Cook the steaks for about 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. The best way to test this if you’re feeling nervous is to use an instant-read thermometer (it takes all the guesswork out of cooking meat); medium-rare should read 135°F (57°C), and medium will be 145°F (63°C). Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

Step 8

ASSEMBLE AND SERVE: Arrange 3 cups (60 g) arugula on plates or a platter, and snuggle in the potatoes everywhere. Drizzle with the dressing. Lift the thinly sliced steak using your knife, and shingle it/fan it out over the arugula. Sprinkle with the crispy shallots and chives.

Step 9

STYLING TIP Creamy dressings are a hard thing to make look good. Make it easier on yourself and serve dressing on the side and let guests drizzle their own.