Grilled Rib-Eye Steaks with Caper and Bread Crumb Salsa

SERVINGS: 8

•MAKE-AHEAD

Randy Windham originally created this crisp bread-crumb topping as a way to use up leftover bread and focaccia; here it sops up the delicious steak juices. Sprinkle any extra over the Arugula, Fresh Corn and Tomato Salad.

Plus: More Grilling Recipes and Tips

Six 1-inch-thick rib-eye steaks (about 3/4 pound each)
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and coarsely ground pepper
One 1 1/2-pound plain focaccia, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 cup minced shallots
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup drained small capers
2 tablespoons minced thyme
Vegetable oil, for the grill

On a large baking sheet, brush the rib-eye steaks on both sides with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and season with 1/2 tablespoon each of salt and coarsely ground pepper. Let the steaks stand at room temperature for 2 hours.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°. Working in batches, pulse the focaccia in a food processor until it is chopped into coarse crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a large bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of the extra-virgin olive oil. Spread the bread crumbs on a large rimmed baking sheet and bake them for about 30 minutes, turning and stirring occasionally, until the crumbs are dry and golden. Let cool.
In a large bowl, mix the shallots with the vinegar and let stand for 15 minutes. Add the capers and thyme, then slowly whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup of olive oil until blended. Add the bread crumbs, season with salt and pepper and toss well.
Light a grill or preheat a cast-iron grill pan. Lightly brush the grate or grill pan with vegetable oil. Grill the steaks over a medium-hot fire until deeply browned on both sides, about 6 minutes for medium rare. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes. Thickly slice the steaks across the grain and arrange on a platter. Spoon half of the bread-crumb salsa over the meat and pass the rest at the table.

Make Ahead The bread crumbs and vinaigrette for the salsa can be made early in the day and tossed together just before serving.

Suggested Pairing

A rustic, medium-bodied Zinfandel with berry flavors and good acidity will complement the smoky grilled steaks and their tangy bread-crumb salsa. Look for a lively, balanced and ready-to-drink bottling from California.

Grilled Rib-Eye Steaks with Caper and Bread Crumb Salsa

Suggested Pairing

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