Heart Healthy Recipe

The color red is associated with the heart and red foods are considered to nourish the heart.   They nourish blood, improve circulation and build fire in the body.  Some foods to consider include: beef, red beans or lentils, cherries, beets, red dates, and red peppers.   

Peppered Filets with a Balsamic Cherry Sauce

• 2 beef tenderloin steaks (8 ounces each)
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper
• Pinch of Salt
• 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 shallot or green onion, chopped
• 1 medium fresh pear, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
• 1/8 cup good-quality aged balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup dried tart cherries

Preparation:

1) Sprinkle steaks with salt and pepper. Grill, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 6-8 minutes on each side or until meat reaches desired doneness (for medium-rare, a thermometer should read 145°; medium, 160°; well-done, 170°). 

2) In a frying pan over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and shallot.  Sauté over medium-high heat for 2 minutes or until soft; decrease heat to medium and add the pears. Continue sautéing, stirring occasionally for 3 to 4 minutes, until the pears are soft and golden brown. 

3) In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch.  Pour over the pear mixture; add the cherries. Increase heat to high and simmer, stirring frequently for 6 to 8 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. 

To serve: place the steak on a plate and top with the balsamic sauce.  A feta and spinach salad and baguette or Italian bread would make great sides.

Posted in Recipes