Parmesan-Panko Steaks with Fresh Tomato Salsa

A crisp panko crust and an Italian-style fresh tomato salsa transform humble cube steaks into something special. Serve with smashed potatoes and sautéed greens.

• 1 lb. ripe tomatoes, cut into medium dice (about 3 cups)
• 5 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
• 1 Tbs. red wine vinegar
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh oregano
• 1 medium clove garlic, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 beef cube steaks (1 to 1-1/4 lb. total)
• 1-1/2 oz. (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1-1/2 cups plain panko
• 3/4 oz. finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (3/4 cup using a rasp grater)

Combine the tomatoes, 1 Tbs. of the oil, the onion, vinegar, oregano, garlic, 1 tsp. salt, and 3/4 tsp. pepper in a medium bowl.

Season the steaks with 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Put the flour in a shallow dish, beat the eggs in a second shallow dish, and combine the panko and Parmigiano in a third shallow dish. Dredge the steaks in the flour, then in the egg, letting any excess drip back into the dish, and then in the breadcrumb mixture.

Heat 2 Tbs. of the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 2 of the steaks, flipping once, until nicely browned and just cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes total. Transfer to a platter, cover, and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining steaks and 2 Tbs. oil. Serve the steaks topped with the salsa.