Ingredients
1/2
cup pitted Kalamata olives, diced
1/4
cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2
tsp Hungarian sweet paprika
2
tsp whole black peppercorns
1
1/2 tsp dried lavender blossoms (optional)*
1
1 1/4-pound trimmed beef tenderloin
2
cups lightly packed fresh arugula
1
2-ounce wedge aged Gouda cheese, shaved using vegetable peeler
Directions
2.
Using small sharp knife, cut off peel and white pith from oranges. Working over medium bowl, cut between membranes to release sections. Cut each section crosswise into 4 pieces and add to bowl. Mix in remaining ingredients. Cover; chill at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours.
4.
Combine first 4 ingredients and lavender, if using, in mortar and coarsely crush with pestle (or place in resealable plastic bag and coarsely crush with rolling pin).
5.
Rub 1 tablespoon oil over beef, then coat beef with spice mixture. Let stand 1 hour at room temperature.
6.
Heat 3 tablespoons oil in heavy large skillet over high heat. Add beef and sear on all sides, turning every 2 minutes, about 12 minutes total (beef will be rare in center). Chill until cold, then wrap in plastic and freeze 1 hour.
7.
Slice meat as thinly as possible (sliced meat can be pounded between layers of waxed paper until paper-thin, if desired). Toss arugula with juices from salsa and mound on platter. Top with salsa. Surround with meat and cheese.
8.
*Available at natural foods stores.
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