Nigella Tagliata Steak

Discover the exquisite flavors of Nigella Lawson's Tagliata Steak, a sumptuous dish perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. This Italian-inspired recipe transforms a simple steak into an elegant meal with a few key ingredients and techniques, showcasing Nigella's flair for making sophisticated dishes accessible.

Nigella Lawson's Tagliata Steak: A Brief Overview

Tagliata, meaning "sliced" in Italian, refers to the method of serving the steak cut into strips, allowing the flavors of the seasoning to permeate each bite. It's a dish that balances the richness of the meat with the freshness of its accompaniments, typically arugula and cherry tomatoes, creating a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Cultural and Historical Context

Rooted in Italian cuisine, Tagliata is a popular way to enjoy steak, emphasizing the quality of the meat and the simplicity of Mediterranean flavors. It's a testament to the Italian culinary philosophy of using a few high-quality ingredients to create a meal that's both satisfying and elegant.

Ingredients for the Tagliata Steak

• 1 New York strip steak (approximately 8 oz)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Kosher salt to taste
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (8 oz)
• Fresh arugula for serving
• Optional: fresh oregano sprigs for garnish

Preparation Instructions

1. Marinate the Steak: Combine olive oil, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and vinegar in a dish. Coat the steak with additional oil and sear on high heat for a desired doneness.
2. Rest and Slice: Let the steak rest in the marinade, then slice it against the grain into thin strips.
3. Assemble the Dish: Toss halved tomatoes in the remaining marinade. Lay arugula on a plate, top with steak strips and tomatoes, and drizzle with any leftover marinade. Garnish with fresh oregano if using.

Storage and Reheating

Tagliata Steak is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak, preferably in a pan over low heat to retain moisture.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, this dish offers a balanced mix of protein and healthy fats, with the arugula and tomatoes providing vitamins and antioxidants. The exact nutritional values can vary, but a typical serving contains around 400 calories, with significant amounts of protein and beneficial fats.

FAQ about the Tagliata Steak

• Can I use a different type of steak? Yes, while New York strip is recommended, you can use ribeye or sirloin as alternatives.
• What if I don't like spicy food? Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste or omit them entirely.

Nigella Lawson's approach to this classic Italian dish brings a touch of elegance to your dining table, proving that a meal can be both simple to prepare and luxurious. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors and textures that pays homage to the richness of Italian cuisine.

Original recipe by Nigella Lawson.

For more detailed instructions and additional tips, visit the original recipe sources at Cooking with Nigella​​ and Delicious Magazine​​.