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Santa Barbara Tri-Tip

High-heat seared tri-tip with garlic, lime, and chile—finished with a California twist of citrus butter and fresh herbs. Comes together in one skillet.

Total time
25 min
Servings
4
Calories
385
Protein
42g
Santa Barbara Tri-Tip
satisfyingcasualcalifornianamericanbeefjuicytendercrispy

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Pat tri-tip dry. Season all over with fleur de sel, black pepper, and Espelette pepper.

  2. Step 2

    Heat olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over high heat until it shimmers, about 90 seconds.

  3. Step 3

    Sear tri-tip 2 minutes per side without moving. Edges should be deeply browned; interior stays medium-rare.

  4. Step 4

    Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic cloves (crushed) and cook 45 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Step 5

    Add butter and juice of 1 lime. Tilt skillet to baste the meat for 2 minutes, then transfer to a cutting board.

  6. Step 6

    Slice against the grain into 0.5-inch strips. Top with cilantro and remaining lime wedges; pour pan sauce over.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch cast iron skillet
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • paper towels

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