Steak Pizzaiola

Ingredients

1. 4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed
2. 2 cloves garlic, minced
3. 1 1/2 pounds tomatoes (about 3), peeled and chopped
4. 3 sprigs plus 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano, or 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
5. 3/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
7. 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak, about 1 inch thick

1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, oregano sprigs or dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes.
2. In a large frying pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons oil over moderate heat. Season the steak with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook the steak for 5 minutes. Turn and cook until done to your taste, about 5 minutes longer for medium rare. Remove the steak and let rest in a warm spot for 5 minutes. Cut the steak diagonally into thin slices and top with the warm tomato sauce and the chopped fresh oregano, if using.