Steak and Arugula Salad with Penne

 

My favorite way to eat in the summertime. Grill+ Meat+Veggie+Greens. Add sunshine, baseball and a good drink and I am all set.  I have since made this salad with a penne pasta added to make it a heartier meal.  The textures of the pasta with the steak and the bite of the arugula is top notch.  Serve cold. 

 Ingredients

• 1 (1-pound) New York strip steak
• 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound penne pasta (optional)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for steak and pasta water
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for steak
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 2 cups chopped arugula

Directions

1. Season the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper, herbs de Provence, and minced garlic.
2. Heat grill to  medium heat. Cook steak about 7 minutes per side. Remove the meat from pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. 
3. Thinly slice the steak. Set aside.
4. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. 
5. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. 
6. Drain pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt,  pepper, fresh herbs, and olive oil.
8. In a large bowl toss the pasta with half of the salad dressing and the reserved pasta water. 
9. Add the arugula and steak, more dressing, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, as needed.