Did someone say steak?

tonight's dinner was a smash hit! my dad [who was definitely a food critic in a past life] was over for one of our mid-week dinner dates and he couldn't stop ranting and ravin' about how good this meal was. I thought it turned out pretty well too...but it's always nice to hear someone else thinks so ;)

Seared Steak + Sautéed Veggies with Pesto Couscous  


ingredients:

• 1 lb hanger or flat iron steak
• 2 cups [uncooked] couscous
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 tbsp pesto sauce
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1 orange bell pepper, cut length wise into strips 
• 1 medium onion, halved and sliced
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 3 tbsp EVOO
• 2 tbsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp Grill Mates® Montreal Steak Seasoning [the BEST steak seasoning. ever.]

directions:

1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium-sized sauce pan.
2. Add couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit, covered, for 10-12 minutes. 
3. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp of EVOO over med-high heat in large sauté pan. 
4. Start by sautéing onions and peppers until soft.
5. Then add garlic, spinach, and remaining EVOO. Toss until spinach is wilted.
6. Remove veggie mixture from pan and place in separate bowl. 
7. Dress steak with seasoning and add to the hot oiled pan. 
8. Cook steak to desired temp. [2-3 minutes on a side should be good for medium-rare]
9. Remove from pan and let rest on cutting board.
10. Prepare couscous by "fluffing" with a fork and adding pesto and red pepper flakes.
11. Stir until blended well. 
12. Layer your plate with a pile of couscous, veggies, and sliced steak on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if you're feeling fancy! [I was feelin' fancy]

Maggie Smith's Downton zingers found in US Weekly.
made waitin' in line at the pharmacy a tad more pleasant. 

toodles! 

xoxo