Steak With Romesco Sauce

Savor the irresistible combination of perfectly cooked steak and Romesco sauce, a flavorful specialty from Catalonia, Spain. This rich, nutty sauce enhances every bite, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your plate. Traditionally served alongside grilled meats and seafood, Romesco sauce boasts a simple yet sensational blend of roasted red peppers, tomatoes, almonds (sometimes hazelnuts), garlic, and a good quality extra-virgin olive oil.

The magic of this sauce lies in the harmonious combination of these humble ingredients, creating a rich, hearty texture and a depth of flavor that elevates any dish to gourmet status. The marriage of steak and Romesco sauce is a match made in culinary heaven and one of my favorites. The robust, savory taste of the steak perfectly complements the nuttiness and slight tang of the Romesco sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

Cuts of Steak

This sauce is versatile and can be used with various steaks, from inexpensive to expensive. For the ultimate steak experience, opt for cuts like flank steak, New York strip, ribeye, or filet mignon.

• Flank Steak – The least expensive cut that’s lean and flavorful, benefits from Romesco’s moisture and vibrant flavor, and balances the cut’s chew while elevating its simplicity.
• New York Strip – Moderately priced with good flavor, firm texture, and moderate marbling, which is enhanced by Romesco’s acidity and nuttiness, and adds complexity without overpowering the meat.
• Ribeye – More expensive due to rich marbling and tenderness, ribeye finds a perfect partner in Romesco. The sauce’s brightness and slight sweetness help offset the steak’s richness, creating a well-rounded bite.
• Filet Mignon – Most expensive cut, prized for its extreme tenderness and mild flavor, which welcomes Romesco’s assertive flavors. The sauce gives it a punch of personality, adding depth without masking the delicate beef texture.

All of the above cuts allow the richness of the Romesco sauce to shine. Romesco works across the board, bringing moisture to lean cuts, contrast to fatty ones, and character to mild ones. My go-to for this recipe is flank steak, but using flank requires marinating it overnight or for at least 8 hours, so be sure to factor that prep time in when cooking.

Romesco Variations

Romesco sauce is a versatile condiment that offers a rich and flavorful addition to various dishes and can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. While the classic recipe typically includes roasted red peppers, tomatoes, almonds, garlic, and olive oil, many variations and regional adaptations of this beloved sauce exist. Here are a few different varieties of Romesco sauce:

• • • Traditional Romesco Sauce: This is a classic recipe from Catalonia, Spain. It features roasted red peppers, tomatoes, almonds, hazelnuts, garlic, olive oil, sherry vinegar, and paprika. Combining these ingredients creates a smooth and slightly chunky sauce with a nutty, smoky flavor profile.
    • Spicy Romesco Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding spicy peppers such as dried chili flakes, chipotle peppers, or a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the heat level of the sauce. This variation adds an extra kick to grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
    • Herbed Romesco Sauce: Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil into the sauce adds a vibrant, herbaceous note to the traditional recipe. Adding herbs brightens the flavor profile and adds a refreshing twist to the sauce.
    • Sundried Tomato Romesco Sauce: By substituting sundried tomatoes for fresh tomatoes, you can create a more intense and concentrated tomato flavor in the sauce. Sundried tomato Romesco sauce pairs exceptionally well with grilled seafood and pasta dishes.
    • Citrus Romesco Sauce: Adding a splash of citrus juice or zest, such as lemon or orange, provides a bright and tangy element to the sauce. The citrusy undertones complement the richness of the nuts and peppers, creating a well-balanced and refreshing variation.

Pan-seared steak with Romesco sauce is a celebration of simplicity and sophistication, showcasing the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine. Fire up the grill and prepare a batch of Romesco sauce, then settle in for a meal that highlights the beauty of simple, bold flavors. It’s a straightforward yet satisfying way to bring something special to the table.