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.

Makes 4 servings

ACTIVE TIME: 30 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 30 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

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

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 INFORMATION: Per serving: 344 calories; 23 g fat (4 g sat, 13 g mono); 49 mg cholesterol; 13 g carbohydrate; 25 g protein; 8 g fiber; 337 mg sodium; 899 mg potassium.
Nutrition bonus: Zinc (33% daily value), Vitamin C (30% dv), Potassium (26% dv), Folate (25% dv).
0 Carbohydrate Servings
Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 3 fat

MAKE AHEAD TIP: The Pebre Sauce will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.