Smoky Garlic Steak with Peach, Arugula and Feta Salad

Wash and dry the peaches. Rinse and thoroughly dry the arugula unless it is prewashed, then put it in a large salad bowl.

For this step: arugula, peaches

Halve and pit the peaches, then cut them into thin slices. Add them to the arugula.

Peel and mince the garlic; set it aside for the glaze.

For this step: garlic

Pat the steak dry. Mix the smoked paprika and thyme with some of the salt and pepper, then rub the mixture over both sides of the steak.

For this step: New York strip steak, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, ground black pepper

Heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot.

While the skillet heats, whisk some of the olive oil and balsamic vinegar with the Dijon mustard and the rest of the salt and pepper in a small bowl. Set the dressing aside.

For this step: salt, ground black pepper, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard

Once the skillet is hot, swirl in the rest of the olive oil and lay in the steak. Sear for 8 to 12 minutes total, turning halfway through, until deeply browned and the center reaches 145°F. Let the steak's thickness and internal temperature guide the final cooking time.

For this step: olive oil

Move the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Keep the skillet and its drippings for the glaze.

While the steak rests, turn the skillet heat down to low. Stir the garlic into the drippings for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Carefully add the rest of the balsamic vinegar and scrape the browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, until slightly reduced and glossy, then pour the glaze into a small bowl.

For this step: balsamic vinegar

Add the dressing to the salad bowl and gently toss until the arugula is coated, taking care not to break up the peaches.

Once the steak has rested, slice it thinly across the grain. Divide the salad among plates and lay the steak slices over it. Finish with crumbled feta and spoon the warm garlic-balsamic glaze over the steak.

For this step: crumbled feta cheese