A luxurious French-inspired lunch featuring raw, high-quality beef tartare paired with a fresh herb salad and a nutrient-dense quinoa medley.
This elegant lunch pairs the delicate, rich flavors of Beef Tartare with a refreshing Herb Salad and a hearty Quinoa Medley. The meal is high in protein from the grass-fed beef and provides fiber-rich, low-GI carbohydrates from quinoa, ensuring sustained energy. Healthy fats from olive oil and a variety of fresh herbs add nutritional balance and vibrant taste.
Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat, add quinoa and salt, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed the water and the grains are tender with a slight pop.
๐ก Fluff the quinoa with a fork after cooking to prevent clumping.
Using a sharp knife, finely chop the beef on a clean, chilled cutting board to achieve a tartare consistency. Work quickly to keep the meat cold, ensuring small, uniform pieces for a smooth texture.
๐ก Place the beef in the freezer for 10 minutes before chopping to make it easier to cut finely.
In a large bowl, combine mixed salad greens with finely chopped parsley and chives. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, tossing gently to coat. In a separate small bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with sliced almonds for added texture and healthy fats.
๐ก Toast the almonds lightly in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavor before mixing with quinoa.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped beef with finely chopped parsley, chives, and minced capers. Add Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper, mixing gently with a fork to incorporate flavors without overworking the meat.
๐ก Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, but avoid overmixing to maintain the meat's delicate texture.
Using a ring mold or by hand, shape the beef mixture into a neat round on each serving plate. If desired, make a small indentation on top and place a raw egg yolk in the center for richness and presentation.
๐ก Chill the plates in the fridge beforehand to keep the tartare cold during serving.