Wild Eats & Treats!

Keto-Friendly Beef Carpaccio with Parmesan

Ingredients

• 200g beef tenderloin: Choose the freshest cut available to ensure optimum flavor and tenderness.
• 50g Parmesan cheese: Shaved into thin slices.
• 50g arugula: Washed and dried for a fresh, peppery garnish.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: High-quality for drizzling.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for a zesty touch.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, preferably sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
• Optional garnish: Capers, pine nuts, or thinly sliced radishes for a bit of extra texture and flavor.

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Freeze the Beef: Place the beef tenderloin in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This brief freezing will firm up the texture, making it much easier to slice thinly and evenly.

2. Slice Thinly: Using a sharp knife, slice the partially frozen beef into very thin slices. If you have access to a meat slicer, even better! Aim for slices that are nearly translucent.

Step 2: Arrange the Carpaccio

1. Layer the Plate: Lay the thin beef slices on a large plate or platter, covering the entire surface. Ensure the slices overlap slightly for an attractive presentation.

2. Season the Beef: Lightly season the beef slices with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Be cautious with the salt, as the Parmesan will also add a salty flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Garnish

1. Dress the Arugula: In a small bowl, toss the arugula with half of the lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. This will lightly dress the leaves without overpowering the beef.

2. Add Cheese and Garnish: Spread the shaved Parmesan over the beef slices, followed by the dressed arugula. Add any optional garnishes like capers or pine nuts if desired.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the remaining olive oil and lemon juice over the entire dish. This adds a flavorful, healthy fat that’s perfect for ketogenic diets.

2. Chill and Serve: Allow the dish to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Recipe Summary

This Keto-Friendly Beef Carpaccio with Parmesan is a simple yet elegant appetizer that can be prepared in under 15 minutes, excluding the time needed to firm the beef in the freezer. Featuring high-quality beef, nutty Parmesan, and peppery arugula, this dish is low in carbohydrates, gentle in preparation, and perfect for those adhering to a keto lifestyle. With approximately 250 calories per serving, it’s a luxurious treat without any surplus dietary concerns. Enjoy this dish as an appetizer or a light meal that’s sure to impress guests and family alike.