Grilled Steak with Tomato and Onion Salad and French Fries

2. Making the Tomato and Onion Salad

1. Prepare the Vegetables: While the steak is resting, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the tomato wedges, sliced red onion, and cucumber. Add the fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
2. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat the vegetables evenly. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Preparing the French Fries

1. Cut the Potatoes: Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Using a sharp knife, cut the potatoes into even, thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide. This ensures that the fries cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Soak the Potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps in achieving a crispier texture. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
4. Fry the Potatoes: Fry the potatoes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the fries turn golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Season the Fries: While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them with sea salt. For added flavor, you can mix in paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

4. Serving the Dish

1. Assemble the Plate: Place a grilled steak on each plate. Serve with a generous portion of the tomato and onion salad on the side, followed by a handful of crispy French fries.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the steak with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a fresh touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of the hot steak and fries with the cool, tangy salad.

Conclusion

This recipe for grilled steak with tomato and onion salad and French fries is a celebration of flavors and textures. The juicy, flavorful steak paired with a refreshing salad and crispy fries makes for a satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook looking to treat your family, this recipe is designed to be foolproof, delivering restaurant-quality results every time.