Pear, Pecan & Gorgonzola Steak Salad

- 2 (8-ounce) Certified Piedmontese flank steaks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for grilling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large pears, cored and cubed
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ¾ cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 4 ounces crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- 4 cups arugula
Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, and oil grill grates. Grill steak for about 2 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Let steak rest before slicing against the grain.
To caramelize the pears: To a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add brown sugar and stir until dissolved. Add cubed pears and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the pears soften. With a slotted spoon, transfer pears to a clean plate. Add pecans to the same skillet with the remaining juices from the pears and toss. Cook over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer pecans (with juices) to the plate with the pears.
Add the arugula to a large bowl. Arrange the steak strips across the top, then add the pears, pecans, and Gorgonzola. Lightly dress with Mustard Vinaigrette (recipe follows).
Mustard Vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Whisk all ingredients together and season with salt and pepper to taste.