Beef Carpaccio with Parmesan

Name: Beef Carpaccio with Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz beef tenderloin, thinly sliced; 1 cup arugula; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Favorite World Food Collection

When I first tried Beef Carpaccio, I was amazed by its delicate flavors and the simplicity of its preparation. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on special occasions. The tender beef, combined with the sharpness of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil, creates an unforgettable experience. Each bite is a beautiful balance of textures and tastes. I love serving it with a fresh arugula salad to add a peppery bite. There’s nothing like this elegant dish to impress my guests or simply indulge myself!

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:33:37.129Z

Beef Carpaccio holds a special place in my heart. The first time I made it, I was captivated by how quickly it came together. All it takes is quality beef, some simple seasonings, and a few minutes of prep. It’s the perfect way to highlight the flavor of the meat without overwhelming it.

One essential tip I discovered is to freeze the beef slightly before slicing it. This makes it easier to achieve those paper-thin slices that are the hallmark of a great Carpaccio. Trust me, taking these extra steps elevates the dish beyond ordinary appetizers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Elegant presentation that impresses at any gathering
Fresh, tender beef melts in your mouth
Quick to prepare but tastes gourmet

Choosing the Right Beef

When preparing Beef Carpaccio, the quality of the beef is paramount. I recommend using grass-fed beef tenderloin for its superior flavor and tenderness. Look for a bright red color with marbling, which indicates intramuscular fat that enhances the meat's tenderness. If you're buying at the butcher, don’t hesitate to ask for a lean cut, as this can result in a more refined taste profile. If tenderloin is unavailable, you can consider using eye of round, but remember that this cut may require a slightly longer chilling time to slice thinly.

Before slicing, it's crucial to chill the beef adequately. Freezing it for about 15 minutes allows for easier handling and makes it easier to achieve very thin slices without tearing the meat. If you don’t have time to freeze it, simply ensure your knife is extremely sharp. A dull knife can crush the fibers of the meat instead of cutting cleanly, which would affect the dish's overall presentation.

Perfecting the Presentation

Plating Beef Carpaccio elegantly can elevate the dining experience. When arranging the beef slices, aim for a slight overlap in a circular pattern on your serving platter. The overlapping not only looks appealing but also ensures that each bite contains a perfect balance of meat and toppings. Try to make the beef resemble flower petals for an eye-catching presentation.

For an added touch of color, consider garnishing the dish with edible flowers or more vibrant greens such as pea shoots alongside the arugula. This provides visual contrast and extra texture. As you drizzle the olive oil, allow it to pool slightly in some areas for a rustic yet polished look. The shine of the oil against the matte finish of the meat enhances the dish’s allure.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make an exquisite Beef Carpaccio with Parmesan.

Ingredients

8 oz beef tenderloin, thinly sliced
1 cup arugula
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to select the freshest ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Beef Carpaccio.

Prepare the Beef

Wrap the beef tenderloin in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up. Once firm, thinly slice the beef using a sharp knife.

Plate the Carpaccio

Arrange the slices of beef on a large serving plate, slightly overlapping them to create an appealing display.

Add Toppings

Top the beef slices with arugula and shaved Parmesan. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve immediately as an appetizer or light main course, and enjoy the simple yet rich flavors.

This dish is best served fresh, so enjoy it right after preparation.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality beef for the best flavor. If you can't find fresh Parmesan, avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it won't melt and meld in your mouth like freshly shaved cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can substitute the beef with thinly sliced cooked chicken or turkey breast, though this will alter the traditional flavor significantly. For a vegetarian twist, sliced grilled mushrooms or beetroot can mimic the texture of meat while adding earthy notes. Keep in mind that these alternatives won't have the same melt-in-your-mouth quality as the beef, but they will still make a delightful starter.

For dairy-free options, consider using nutritional yeast flakes or a nut-based cheese in place of Parmesan. These alternatives will provide umami flavors and a bit of creaminess, although the texture and sharpness of cheese will be different. Just whisk them into the dressing or sprinkle them on top to maintain the dish's elegant presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Carpaccio pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which can further enhance the flavors of the dish. I love serving it with a side of crusty bread or crostini, allowing guests to scoop up the beef and toppings for a fun interactive element. This pairing also adds a wonderful crunchy texture, balancing out the dish's richness.

For a complete meal, consider adding a light soup, like a gazpacho or a smooth bisque, as a starter. This approach creates a beautiful contrast to the richness of the Carpaccio while still keeping the meal elegant. If you're hosting a larger gathering, serve the Carpaccio alongside other antipasti, like marinated olives or roasted vegetables, to create a stunning grazing table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh. However, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving.

→ What type of beef should I use?

Beef tenderloin is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, but ensure it is top quality.

→ Can I use different toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different greens or cheeses to suit your taste.

→ Is this dish safe to eat raw?

Yes, as long as you use high-quality, fresh beef from a reputable source, it is safe to consume.