Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly cooked rib eye steak. Its rich marbling and tenderness make it a favorite among steak lovers. Today, we’re elevating this classic dish with a burst of fresh flavors from lemon and garlic. Imagine the sizzle of the steak in the pan, the aroma of garlic mingling with the zestiness of lemon, creating a mouthwatering experience that will have your taste buds dancing. This recipe for Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks is simple yet impressive, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This recipe for Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks is not just about cooking a beautiful piece of meat; it’s about bringing together flavors that complement each other beautifully. The acidity from the lemon brightens the richness of the steak, while the garlic adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy evenings or when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your meal rotation.
Gather These Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Two 8-ounce rib eye steaks, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 large garlic cloves, peeled and cut in half
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano, divided
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 medium lemon, juiced and zested
Equipment at a Glance
Before we dive into cooking, let’s make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Large skillet – A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking.
- Tongs – For flipping the steaks without piercing them.
- Meat thermometer – To ensure your steaks are cooked to perfection.
- Cutting board – For resting the steaks after cooking.
- Sharp knife – For slicing the steaks before serving.
Make Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks: A Simple Method
Cooking Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious steak dinner:
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Start by taking your rib eye steaks out of the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step ensures even cooking. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to have it handy.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Allow them to sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes on the first side, depending on your desired doneness. Flip the steaks using tongs, and add the halved garlic cloves and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Once you’ve flipped the steaks, add the salted butter and chopped oregano to the skillet. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the buttery, garlicky oil for about 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.
Step 5: Rest the Steaks
Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Step 6: Serve with Lemon
Before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the steaks and add a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Slice the steaks against the grain, and serve them with the roasted garlic and a sprinkle of fresh oregano.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, here are some easy swaps you can make:
- Olive oil – Substitute with avocado oil or grapeseed oil for high-heat cooking.
- Butter – Use vegan butter or a dairy-free alternative if lactose intolerant.
- Garlic – While it’s a key flavor, you can omit it or use garlic-infused oil for a milder taste.
- Oregano – Feel free to replace it with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the technique. The rib eye cut is inherently flavorful due to its marbling, which keeps it tender and juicy during cooking. The combination of lemon and garlic not only enhances the steak’s natural flavors but also helps to balance the richness of the meat. Using fresh herbs like oregano adds a layer of complexity that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To ensure your Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks remain delicious even after cooking, follow these storage tips:
If you have leftovers, allow the steaks to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked steaks. Wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place the steaks in a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can also use a microwave, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks Q&A
How do I know when my rib eye steaks are done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F, and for medium, aim for 135-145°F. Remember that the steaks will continue to cook slightly while resting.
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rib eye is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use sirloin or New York strip steaks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the cut and thickness.
What should I serve with Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks?
This steak pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A glass of red wine also complements the richness of the steak perfectly.
Can I grill these steaks instead of pan frying them?
Yes! Grilling is a fantastic alternative to pan frying. Preheat your grill to high heat, season your steaks, and grill them for about 4-5 minutes per side, basting with the garlic and butter mixture as you would in the skillet.
Save & Share
If you loved this recipe for Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with friends and family, or save it for your next culinary adventure. Cooking is always better when shared, and this steak dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Now that you have the perfect recipe for Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. The combination of lemon, garlic, and tender rib eye will create a meal that is not only flavorful but also memorable. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!
Pan Fried Lemon Garlic Rib Eye Steaks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by taking your rib eye steaks out of the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Allow them to sear without moving for about 4-5 minutes, then flip the steaks, adding the halved garlic cloves and remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Once flipped, add the salted butter and chopped oregano to the skillet. Baste the steaks with the buttery, garlicky oil for about 3-4 minutes, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
- Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the steaks and add a sprinkle of lemon zest. Slice against the grain and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Let the steaks rest after cooking for juicier meat.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
