Skillet-Roasted Strip Steaks with Pebre Sauce & Avocado

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/skillet_roasted_strip_steaks_with_pebre_sauce_avocado.html

From EatingWell:  March/April 2008

This recipe was inspired by the popular Chilean sandwich, called a churrasco, that features a thin sandwich steak, mashed avocado and a type of salsa called Pebre. We have substituted tender strip steak for sandwich steaks to make a satisfying steak dinner. If you have leftovers, layer the components in a mayonnaise-coated crusty roll and enjoy a churrasco sandwich the following day. Searing a steak on the stovetop and then finishing it in a moderate oven allows for good browning, and the gentle heat helps ensure a tender result.

4 servings | Active Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Pebre sauce

• 1/2 cup finely chopped sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla
• 1 medium-large tomato, seeded and diced
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons minced jalapeño, or serrano pepper
• 2 tablespoons red-wine or cider vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Steak

• 3/4 teaspoon paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 8- to 10-ounce New York strip (top loin) steaks, trimmed
• 2 teaspoons canola oil
• 2 avocados, pitted and peeled

Preparation

1. To prepare Pebre Sauce: Place onion in a medium bowl, cover with ice water and let soak for 10 to 20 minutes. Drain. Combine the onion, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño (or serrano), vinegar, garlic and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.
2. Preheat oven to 325°F.
3. To prepare steak: Mix paprika, cumin, oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of steaks.
4. Heat oil in a large ovenproof skillet, such as cast iron, over medium-high. Add the steaks and cook just until browned, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer the pan to the oven and roast the steaks 5 to 7 minutes for medium-rare, depending on thickness. Transfer to a clean cutting board. Tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, mash avocados with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
6. Carve the steak into thin slices. Serve with the avocado and Pebre Sauce.

Nutrition

Per serving : 344 Calories; 23 g Fat; 4 g Sat; 13 g Mono; 49 mg Cholesterol; 13 g Carbohydrates; 25 g Protein; 8 g Fiber; 337 mg Sodium; 899 mg Potassium

Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 3 fat

Tips & Notes

• Make Ahead Tip: The Pebre Sauce will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.