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, trimmed and frozen slightly for easier slicing; 4 oz Parmesan cheese, shaved; 2 cups arugula or mixed greens; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional: Truffle oil, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Natural Kitchen

I absolutely adore the delicate taste of Beef Carpaccio, especially when it’s topped with fresh Parmesan. This dish has become a staple at my dinner parties, impressing my guests with its simplicity and elegance. The key is using high-quality beef and letting the flavors shine through with just a few ingredients. I love serving it fresh with a drizzle of truffle oil or a squeeze of lemon to enhance the taste. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:06:38.030Z

When I first tried Beef Carpaccio on a trip to Italy, I was amazed by how a few simple ingredients could create such a stunning dish. The combination of tender beef, rich Parmesan, and a hint of lemon was simply unforgettable. I remember replicating the recipe at home, and with each bite, it transported me back to that charming Italian bistro. It reminded me that good food doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes, it’s about selecting the right ingredients and allowing them to speak for themselves.

Over the years, I’ve learned to experiment with the presentation and flavor profile. For instance, adding arugula not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle peppery kick that complements the delicate beef. I often play around with different oils, and I find that a bit of truffle oil elevates the dish even further. This dish is a prime example of how less can truly be more in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that is incredibly flavorful
The rich umami of Parmesan perfectly complements the dish
A quick and stunning appetizer that impresses every time

Selecting the Right Beef

The choice of beef is paramount for a stellar Beef Carpaccio. Always opt for high-quality beef tenderloin, as it provides tenderness and a beautiful flavor profile. When handling the meat, make sure it's partially frozen, which makes slicing it thinly much easier—aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures that the carpaccio remains delicate and melt-in-your-mouth, truly showcasing the meat's natural flavors.

To ensure freshness and safety, consider purchasing your beef from a reputable butcher or a trusted source. It’s a good practice to ask for the beef to be trimmed and readily prepared for carpaccio. The meat should appear bright red with minimal marbling, indicating it’s both fresh and of high quality.

The Art of Plating

Presentation matters, especially with a dish as elegant as Beef Carpaccio. After arranging the slices on a platter, consider overlapping the edges slightly for a visually pleasing effect. Use a large serving platter to give your dish space to breathe—this helps elevate its appeal at dinner parties.

When drizzling olive oil and lemon juice, do so lightly and evenly to avoid overwhelming the flavors of the beef. It’s best to add these condiments just before serving to ensure the beef retains its fresh texture. A well-plated carpaccio should not only taste divine but also look stunning, drawing guests in for that first bite.

Experimenting with Flavors and Textures

While traditional Beef Carpaccio uses olive oil and lemon juice, don’t hesitate to experiment with other elements. For instance, adding capers or shallots can introduce a delightful tang and crunch. You can also try a balsamic reduction for a sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef and cheese.

If you're looking to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions, feel free to substitute arugula with other greens like baby spinach or even microgreens. Each type of green brings its unique flavor to the dish, allowing you to customize your carpaccio experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create your Beef Carpaccio:

Ingredients

8 oz beef tenderloin, trimmed and frozen slightly for easier slicing
4 oz Parmesan cheese, shaved
2 cups arugula or mixed greens
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: Truffle oil, for drizzling

You can use a mandoline to create perfect slices of beef if available.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Beef Carpaccio:

Prepare the Beef

Using a sharp knife, slice the slightly frozen beef tenderloin into extremely thin slices. If using a meat slicer or mandoline, set it to the thinnest setting for the best results.

Plate and Season

Arrange the slices of beef in a single layer on a large serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Add the Toppings

Top the beef with shaved Parmesan and a handful of arugula or mixed greens. If desired, finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of luxury.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Beef Carpaccio with friends and family!

Pro Tips

Always use high-quality beef for the best flavor and texture. Freezing the beef slightly makes it easier to slice thinly. Experiment with different toppings like capers or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor.

Tips for Perfectly Shaved Parmesan

For the best results, invest in a quality vegetable peeler or a cheese planer for shaving your Parmesan. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses, as they often lack the freshness and flavor that freshly shaved cheese provides. Aim for thin, delicate shavings that will melt slightly into the warm beef for added richness.

To enhance the cheese's flavor, you can let the Parmesan sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. This softens the texture and allows its natural aromas to develop, creating a more pronounced flavor when paired with the carpaccio.

Make-Ahead & Storage Suggestions

Beef Carpaccio is best enjoyed fresh, but if you're short on time, you can prepare the beef by slicing it and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just ensure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. Wait to add lemon juice or olive oil until just before serving to keep the textures intact.

Leftover carpaccio can be stored in the fridge for one day, but the quality may decrease. If you find yourself with excess, you can incorporate it into salads or pasta dishes for a gourmet touch. Just remember to only heat it through gently, as overcooking will toughen the beef.

Scaling Up Your Carpaccio

If you’re planning a larger gathering, simply scale up the recipe by increasing the quantities proportionately. For a crowd, consider preparing a family-style platter, which allows guests to help themselves. The visual impact of multiple platters featuring beautiful arrangements of beef can create an impressive buffet-style presentation.

When scaling, keep in mind that the slicing technique remains the same, but ensure new batches of beef are similarly chilled to achieve the desired thinness. Preparing multiple platters also offers an opportunity to mix and match toppings, allowing for a playful variety that keeps guests excited about each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare Beef Carpaccio in advance?

Beef Carpaccio is best served fresh; however, you can prepare the beef and toppings and assemble just before serving.

→ What cut of beef is best for Carpaccio?

The tenderloin is ideal due to its tenderness and flavor, but you can also use sirloin or eye of rounds.

→ Is it safe to eat raw beef?

Yes, as long as you source high-quality beef and handle it safely. Always check for freshness.

→ What can I serve with Beef Carpaccio?

It pairs beautifully with light salads, crusty bread, or as part of a charcuterie board.