Panera Bread is a popular fast-casual chain known for its healthy and delicious menu options. One of their most beloved sandwiches is the Steak and Arugula Sandwich, which features tender steak, peppery arugula, and a tangy horseradish sauce, all piled high on a crusty baguette. If you’re a fan of this sandwich, you’ll be thrilled to know that you can easily make it at home with just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills.
Understanding the Components of the Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the components that make up this iconic sandwich.
The Steak
The steak used in Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich is a thinly sliced, lean cut of beef, such as top round or top sirloin. The steak is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When selecting a cut of beef for your Steak and Arugula Sandwich, look for a lean cut that is at least 1/4 inch thick. You can use either top round or top sirloin, but top round is a more affordable option. If you can’t find either of these cuts, you can also use flank steak or skirt steak.
The Arugula
The arugula used in Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich is a peppery, fresh green that adds a burst of flavor to the sandwich. You can use either baby arugula or regular arugula, depending on your personal preference.
Why Arugula is the Perfect Choice
Arugula is the perfect choice for this sandwich because of its peppery flavor and delicate texture. It adds a nice contrast to the richness of the steak and the creaminess of the horseradish sauce.
The Horseradish Sauce
The horseradish sauce used in Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich is a tangy, creamy condiment that adds a nice kick to the sandwich. The sauce is made with a combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and prepared horseradish.
Why Horseradish Sauce is the Perfect Addition
Horseradish sauce is the perfect addition to this sandwich because of its tangy, slightly spicy flavor. It adds a nice contrast to the richness of the steak and the peppery flavor of the arugula.
Recreating the Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich at Home
Now that we’ve taken a closer look at the components of the Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich, let’s talk about how to recreate it at home.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make the Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich at home:
- 1 pound thinly sliced top round or top sirloin steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup horseradish sauce (see below for recipe)
- 4 crusty baguette slices
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
Horseradish Sauce Recipe
Here is a simple recipe for horseradish sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Instructions
Here are the instructions for making the Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich at home:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture onto both sides of the steak.
- Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
- Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices by grilling them for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they’re lightly browned.
- Spread a layer of horseradish sauce on each baguette slice.
- Top each baguette slice with a slice of steak, a handful of arugula, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich to the next level:
Tips for Making the Perfect Steak
- Make sure to let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it. This will help the juices redistribute and the steak to stay tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Don’t press down on the steak with your spatula while it’s grilling. This can squeeze out the juices and make the steak tough.
Variations to Try
- Add some sliced red onion or bell peppers to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, instead of Parmesan.
- Add some sliced bacon or prosciutto to the sandwich for a smoky, salty flavor.
Conclusion
The Panera Steak and Arugula Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With its tender steak, peppery arugula, and tangy horseradish sauce, it’s a sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can easily recreate this iconic sandwich at home and enjoy it whenever you want. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the magic for yourself!
What type of steak is best for Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich?
The best type of steak for Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich is a thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts of steak are tender, flavorful, and have a good balance of marbling, which will add richness to the sandwich. You can also use other types of steak, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye or top round is recommended for the most authentic flavor.
When selecting a steak, look for one that is at least 1/4 inch thick and has a good balance of marbling. You can also ask your butcher to slice the steak thinly for you, or slice it yourself at home using a sharp knife. Make sure to slice the steak against the grain, as this will make it more tender and easier to chew.
How do I cook the steak for Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich?
To cook the steak for Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich, you will want to grill or pan-fry it to medium-rare. This will give the steak a nice char on the outside and a tender, pink interior. To grill the steak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
To pan-fry the steak, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should be at least 130°F for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
What type of bread is best for Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich?
The best type of bread for Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich is a crusty baguette or ciabatta. These types of bread have a nice texture and flavor that will complement the steak and arugula. You can also use other types of bread, such as a rustic bread or a hearty bread, but a crusty baguette or ciabatta is recommended for the most authentic flavor.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is fresh and has a nice crust. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich, which will give it a crispy texture and a more flavorful taste. Make sure to slice the bread thinly, as this will make it easier to bite into the sandwich.
How do I assemble Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich?
To assemble Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich, start by slicing the steak thinly against the grain. Next, slice the bread into thin slices and toast it lightly. Then, spread a layer of horseradish sauce on the bread, followed by a layer of arugula. Place the sliced steak on top of the arugula, and finish with a slice of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss.
Make sure to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as this will ensure that the ingredients are fresh and the bread is crispy. You can also customize the sandwich to your taste by adding other ingredients, such as sliced onions or bell peppers. Just be sure to keep the ingredients balanced and flavorful, as this will make the sandwich more enjoyable to eat.
Can I customize Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich to my taste?
Yes, you can customize Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwich to your taste by adding or substituting different ingredients. Some ideas for customization include adding sliced onions or bell peppers, using different types of cheese, or adding a layer of caramelized onions or mushrooms. You can also use different types of bread or steak, or add a layer of spreads, such as hummus or avocado.
Just be sure to keep the ingredients balanced and flavorful, as this will make the sandwich more enjoyable to eat. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find the perfect flavor and texture for your taste. Don’t be afraid to try new things and adjust the ingredients to your liking.
How do I store leftover Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwiches?
To store leftover Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the sandwiches for up to 2 months, although the bread may become slightly stale. To freeze the sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the microwave or oven, although the bread may become slightly crispy. Just be sure to reheat the sandwiches to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.
Can I make Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Panera’s Steak and Arugula Sandwiches ahead of time, although it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can cook the steak and toast the bread ahead of time, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the horseradish sauce and arugula ahead of time, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Just be sure to assemble the sandwiches just before serving, as this will ensure that the ingredients are fresh and the bread is crispy. You can also customize the sandwiches to your taste by adding or substituting different ingredients, although it’s best to do this just before serving to ensure the best flavor and texture.