Thai Steak & Vegetable Noodles in Peanut Sauce... Again

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlOQqAD6e6OEPXzf7QtPT5rGFXELxHd5l9x9PArzZUONovP0y-lkPd2O-BbIbJO-e7bKAL9NQ6JS0o2ynOXKtMWCnG2RQRbBdDd1N7yK4nZkNW2_O_2qrAAL4q7993VSzHVI6TK3UBr71/s1600/thai-steak-noodles.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlOQqAD6e6OEPXzf7QtPT5rGFXELxHd5l9x9PArzZUONovP0y-lkPd2O-BbIbJO-e7bKAL9NQ6JS0o2ynOXKtMWCnG2RQRbBdDd1N7yK4nZkNW2_O_2qrAAL4q7993VSzHVI6TK3UBr71/s1600/thai-steak-noodles.png" width="464" /></a>This is the 3rd time I've shared a recipe similar to this on the blog.  The first was in 2010, and the second in 2011.  Now that it is 2014, I've perfected it - and simplified it.  Perhaps it is my lack of time or brain power to make sure that I had all of the ingredients that the first two included... I think there were 18?  Now, when we're at the grocery store, I'm pushing a giant red car cart, feeding Emma grapes and cleaning up the carton of pink milk we just drizzled down Aisle 4.<br /><br />It seems like I always end up forgetting a couple of things we need to make dinner happen.  But, dinner always does happen anyway - maybe not the way I intended, but sometimes it turns out for the better.  In this case, I've simplified the ingredients to make the entire dish work better together.<br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F07%2Fthai-steak-vegetable-noodles-in-peanut.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-9c7FPCY3k2s%2FU8_Nz1kwofI%2FAAAAAAAAYSU%2FsOvl700bOGg%2Fs1600%2Fthai-steak-noodles.png&description=Thai%20Steak%20Noodles%20with%20Vegetables%20in%20a%20Spicy%20Peanut%20Sauce%20%7C%20Easy%20Thai%20Recipe%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br />You can see the old recipes, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/thai-steak-noodle-salad-simple-thai.html">here</a>, and grimace at my photography like I did.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like to serve this with warm steak and noodles, but you can also serve it cold, more like a salad... which is how I had the left overs for lunch today.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8; font-size: 14px;">Sign-up </span><a href="http://mad.ly/signups/118273/join" style="background-color: #f7f7f8; font-size: 14px;">here</a><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8; font-size: 14px;"> for an emailed version of my </span><a href="http://mad.ly/signups/118273/join" style="background-color: #f7f7f8; font-size: 14px;">Printable Recipes</a><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8; font-size: 14px;">.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9tVgu2XNpSnGgjHsqELww-4Y2hXGHLi6txCtEVOfkDK0PajnHUl9nvKg_NKeD8woLAmHN67qCtzGPPLum1RsHNwIs66otGj1WjU60GQtaQmAfvC-3ytqgt93pfzj9WmVgQrzif3_Dx0v/s1600/IMG_2684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9tVgu2XNpSnGgjHsqELww-4Y2hXGHLi6txCtEVOfkDK0PajnHUl9nvKg_NKeD8woLAmHN67qCtzGPPLum1RsHNwIs66otGj1WjU60GQtaQmAfvC-3ytqgt93pfzj9WmVgQrzif3_Dx0v/s1600/IMG_2684.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Thai Steak Noodles in Peanut Sauce</i></span><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F07%2Fthai-steak-vegetable-noodles-in-peanut.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-9c7FPCY3k2s%2FU8_Nz1kwofI%2FAAAAAAAAYSU%2FsOvl700bOGg%2Fs1600%2Fthai-steak-noodles.png&description=Thai%20Steak%20Noodles%20with%20Vegetables%20in%20a%20Spicy%20Peanut%20Sauce%20%7C%20Easy%20Thai%20Recipe%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br />1 pound Flank Steak<br />1/2 box Linguine, cooked<br />1 small head savoy or napa cabbage, shredded<br />1 1/2 cups carrots, matchsticks<br />1/4 cup of cilantro, fresh, torn into pieces<br />1 red pepper, matchsticks<br />3 tablespoons of peanut butter<br />2 tablespoons of vegetable oil<br />1 teaspoon siracha (more for spicier)<br />1 clove garlic, minced <br />1 tablespoon of brown sugar<br />1 lime, cut in wedgest<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja547gydwdfkaFhYpw6pYXGpQYsTl2GDvb9cpExAdQT4WEJHNuyZ9J0LQ0x_Q77DTELhOfEdRq2WG5M5VTzw9BtxAEmZTBmTkUaxQ-4OpAGi7uBxlM5AxZjxADbSyi6UfM7d9EgcjZUzZz/s1600/IMG_2677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja547gydwdfkaFhYpw6pYXGpQYsTl2GDvb9cpExAdQT4WEJHNuyZ9J0LQ0x_Q77DTELhOfEdRq2WG5M5VTzw9BtxAEmZTBmTkUaxQ-4OpAGi7uBxlM5AxZjxADbSyi6UfM7d9EgcjZUzZz/s1600/IMG_2677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Salt the steak on both sides, then sear it in a hot pan for 3 minutes on each side.  Cover with foil and let rest for 15 minutes, then slice thin.<br /><br />Meanwhile, cook the linguine in salted boiling water until al dente.  Drain.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhgBfu5xhcu0pBCyQjkfqnDCMw_cAOrGWxQqSr0aV88D_35F8-o8uIOou1TqMB3vGqcxotE02eOpslwgg2MgxPJ6WJHI1UZtnHYIl1STifaq7DeGTdAwqC9Xfu9o0-3Y0IwTX3xVmZvhm/s1600/IMG_2672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhgBfu5xhcu0pBCyQjkfqnDCMw_cAOrGWxQqSr0aV88D_35F8-o8uIOou1TqMB3vGqcxotE02eOpslwgg2MgxPJ6WJHI1UZtnHYIl1STifaq7DeGTdAwqC9Xfu9o0-3Y0IwTX3xVmZvhm/s1600/IMG_2672.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />To make the sauce, combine the peanut butter, oil, siracha, brown sugar and garlic in a small bowl.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPsnXz3rSsYZubw8Chc9dbYYVB8FvwHtaQsSokypSj0pK-my3txRTg6g8jE-Zx-mnRODMne_S1WNAfjGOMdivIMRm1hntHLlt6Eppo5nmHSqSzjLgC61VnfZeQ2II6P2pC0WZPa-SUJ51/s1600/IMG_2675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPsnXz3rSsYZubw8Chc9dbYYVB8FvwHtaQsSokypSj0pK-my3txRTg6g8jE-Zx-mnRODMne_S1WNAfjGOMdivIMRm1hntHLlt6Eppo5nmHSqSzjLgC61VnfZeQ2II6P2pC0WZPa-SUJ51/s1600/IMG_2675.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Mix with whisk or fork until smooth.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFNak4YYN4bqgp2YdMbBVKr9Z6vB5zoK3fuCJyxG9YjzIA4kPCxzjf4ytKSL3JHtt1yKBDxKPflX-raE01ybP_tTLYNoL49cZUteeaavP9tngzxLAacQKntmdyHQouVwabbHlqYWgbest/s1600/IMG_2676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFNak4YYN4bqgp2YdMbBVKr9Z6vB5zoK3fuCJyxG9YjzIA4kPCxzjf4ytKSL3JHtt1yKBDxKPflX-raE01ybP_tTLYNoL49cZUteeaavP9tngzxLAacQKntmdyHQouVwabbHlqYWgbest/s1600/IMG_2676.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Add pasta, steak, shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro and red pepper.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGpnP3nDTkme6WjrVzQvBSWw0DuShhAxdWp7n2ORnyE_8RjtwnxPrxLofS1S-j1ofLrf763SsX9krMTDi2OBnwa1dXx6AY5cnlVW7A44Eg_E5a-RxpznEti85LUxLBDLHaDcPbUwHtX9T/s1600/IMG_2684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGpnP3nDTkme6WjrVzQvBSWw0DuShhAxdWp7n2ORnyE_8RjtwnxPrxLofS1S-j1ofLrf763SsX9krMTDi2OBnwa1dXx6AY5cnlVW7A44Eg_E5a-RxpznEti85LUxLBDLHaDcPbUwHtX9T/s1600/IMG_2684.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> Serve with a squeeze of lime and chopped peanuts (if you can remember them... I forgot!).<br /><br /> <a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F07%2Fthai-steak-vegetable-noodles-in-peanut.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-9c7FPCY3k2s%2FU8_Nz1kwofI%2FAAAAAAAAYSU%2FsOvl700bOGg%2Fs1600%2Fthai-steak-noodles.png&description=Thai%20Steak%20Noodles%20with%20Vegetables%20in%20a%20Spicy%20Peanut%20Sauce%20%7C%20Easy%20Thai%20Recipe%21"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Thai Steak & Vegetable Noodles in Peanut Sauce... Again

This is the 3rd time I've shared a recipe similar to this on the blog.  The first was in 2010, and the second in 2011.  Now that it is 2...

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Grilling with Herbs | Steaks & Herb Butter, Tomatoes & Basil, Squash & Thyme

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFThKMiVQgAH3BYIDQqWsgy3NK3gIqtQz2J_jOFtd2XOB9rwvcnkib1nDCZgyTRMMJdv87I1qCaZ9yBqOm5BZAZWfsXcx0fZExPt7ipf9b1bgo2_p1gI0ko7-qtO_oBnvGmjTjoQ711Zs/s1600/IMG_1404.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFThKMiVQgAH3BYIDQqWsgy3NK3gIqtQz2J_jOFtd2XOB9rwvcnkib1nDCZgyTRMMJdv87I1qCaZ9yBqOm5BZAZWfsXcx0fZExPt7ipf9b1bgo2_p1gI0ko7-qtO_oBnvGmjTjoQ711Zs/s1600/IMG_1404.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">During the summertime, recipes sort of go out the window around our house.  It is more about fresh, simple flavors drizzled with a little of this, sprinkled with a little of that and then grilled.  I love this sort of "cooking" because prep is minimal and cleanup is easy - everything goes outside on a baking sheet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpNKGo9N_tWyE-xPQbWJxCyAP8hYLcLXfnO60QGFKJlALsIewBNcHJJaTzEEGNR54fDa5dk3plyUDPtN3YGr8DZiXJck-cEOK4ES45vRJSSJNOCWwcERJO1KAHD9FpslO47dLWgfUwBJG/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpNKGo9N_tWyE-xPQbWJxCyAP8hYLcLXfnO60QGFKJlALsIewBNcHJJaTzEEGNR54fDa5dk3plyUDPtN3YGr8DZiXJck-cEOK4ES45vRJSSJNOCWwcERJO1KAHD9FpslO47dLWgfUwBJG/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Emma's new favorite phrase is "I help make dinner, Mom?" (as she skootches her chair over to the counter) brings a whole new importance to the idea of simple and easy.  </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Typically, her duties are peeling garlic, putting things in bowls after I chop them, drizzling olive oil, stirring, etc.  She looooved the idea of brushing the marinade on the squash with a paintbrush - it was almost like she thought I was kidding.  "Maahh-om"  her other new favorite thing to say.  Like a 3rd grader.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPv30O_67Bzpw3W0OtiNHtbGkuGxbZDR7Up28flLvrZnKbMKB2nxtyqeV1bayz7AdonICik9ghlED3lL-RkraBBAZOmMuQZsBAyiojTX_D4LH2xFvv0v_v8ZN5kM8rHL7SNMRtCVuHiU2C/s1600/IMG_1386.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPv30O_67Bzpw3W0OtiNHtbGkuGxbZDR7Up28flLvrZnKbMKB2nxtyqeV1bayz7AdonICik9ghlED3lL-RkraBBAZOmMuQZsBAyiojTX_D4LH2xFvv0v_v8ZN5kM8rHL7SNMRtCVuHiU2C/s1600/IMG_1386.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGD_j1l1GkUo1Xx2pXRH0VI9E1sRJLnD66hk5ap_HwuDkVc9SibVUKm4afdiHyxKMk9GiGUBIo32HEf1L_-PgxifLQ9xA2HicNIetmI2wkPqQqqhInzY-_t6dfwF-IIYairAx7fd1CwPi/s1600/herbs-grilling.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGD_j1l1GkUo1Xx2pXRH0VI9E1sRJLnD66hk5ap_HwuDkVc9SibVUKm4afdiHyxKMk9GiGUBIo32HEf1L_-PgxifLQ9xA2HicNIetmI2wkPqQqqhInzY-_t6dfwF-IIYairAx7fd1CwPi/s1600/herbs-grilling.png" width="507" /></a>As I said before, these aren't really recipes, just sort of our favorite combos for simple summer dinners.</div><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Steaks & Tarragon Butter </i></span><br />-butter<br />-fresh tarragon (or rosemary, thyme, basil...)<br />-salt & pepper<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Zucchini & Squash</i></span><br />-chopped garlic<br />-olive oil<br />-thyme<br />-lemon juice<br />-salt & pepper<br /><br />Tomatoes & Mozzarella<br />-sliced tomatoes <br />-fresh mozzarella, sliced<br />-fresh basil<br />-salt & pepper<br />-olive oil<br />-balsamic<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2h3LK1WcN8-cvrWC8X5GF0hh9VhlQNo8HSid-Te5QwGmvenrE791p2aEkyKQ8z5w0-NlIvrdT379QM1eEo0c4lo8DmcJX5Rr5NcH1_JZ2O0XOsEkCr6uu0UYM0dfUwS7NFoUPKCEFwt1C/s1600/IMG_1371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2h3LK1WcN8-cvrWC8X5GF0hh9VhlQNo8HSid-Te5QwGmvenrE791p2aEkyKQ8z5w0-NlIvrdT379QM1eEo0c4lo8DmcJX5Rr5NcH1_JZ2O0XOsEkCr6uu0UYM0dfUwS7NFoUPKCEFwt1C/s1600/IMG_1371.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is a great recipe for pre-tomato season because you need firm tomatoes so they hold up on the grill.  Local tomatoes aren't quite ready here yet, so these are just standard grocery store tomatoes.  Grilling them really amps up the "real" summer tomato flavor.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3kyoC7xg7YiEfT9NHFfhyphenhyphenn0uXbwZBl9xXLR0z3GP7Vgtr5ZlnXRFWeTriStjlG7Daxns5aWIwaWTEBx_Jd0W9QOGzfY17WP4TGmhlNBqDggS-9bhQmYXjzjfcx8FPcIGvc6wUTw8npbZF/s1600/IMG_1374.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3kyoC7xg7YiEfT9NHFfhyphenhyphenn0uXbwZBl9xXLR0z3GP7Vgtr5ZlnXRFWeTriStjlG7Daxns5aWIwaWTEBx_Jd0W9QOGzfY17WP4TGmhlNBqDggS-9bhQmYXjzjfcx8FPcIGvc6wUTw8npbZF/s1600/IMG_1374.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />I just slice them, then top them with fresh mozzarella before they go on the grill.  After the cheese is melty, top with fresh basil, olive oil, salt & pepper and balsamic.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxoSDFKIbZelJpAEr8nXc_L0-xoDRCXdJ5zBLL7JMkcrY6AJv2SLrKYVQo6LinpRfJWrDWT7JcQZJycmJ7igABw3Gw3Qfk42CAOIUCSDAhMddoEVvTIWTkJ_YThe8nNt6Jwxk0sWOh7KNg/s1600/IMG_1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxoSDFKIbZelJpAEr8nXc_L0-xoDRCXdJ5zBLL7JMkcrY6AJv2SLrKYVQo6LinpRfJWrDWT7JcQZJycmJ7igABw3Gw3Qfk42CAOIUCSDAhMddoEVvTIWTkJ_YThe8nNt6Jwxk0sWOh7KNg/s1600/IMG_1368.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />For the squash, I just stir together the olive oil, garlic, fresh thyme, lemon juice and salt & pepper.  This is a great marinade/sauce for anything and everything on the grill.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJJebQc_2LNoeQxyhQ5Xo9tYyqD9Z2FtJNFqiddxEfavM-Cm4qCEP4CKdiMepEzlo_5Oy4E_yu82VXbET-zEmm2HIoM7kMagfKmPa4UuhDW9XHJjD0jd2u1fPvhirkRmgvI6eV4RAU7J4/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJJebQc_2LNoeQxyhQ5Xo9tYyqD9Z2FtJNFqiddxEfavM-Cm4qCEP4CKdiMepEzlo_5Oy4E_yu82VXbET-zEmm2HIoM7kMagfKmPa4UuhDW9XHJjD0jd2u1fPvhirkRmgvI6eV4RAU7J4/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We always just put olive oil, sea salt and pepper on our steaks - anything more always ends up being less.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLc2WWwAqAaa8zUek0bELNzPodfaXqb5rxxr3UxM18q8VWnkVM8RyFK8MB9aK9F-_LnGXZqZaR5g1V_MP2kEhbEC433kKRc3cK9A7jBpuN6Xj8RaxZkuMPKYvKh8QWEuGoHkysRiGSlo6/s1600/IMG_1377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLc2WWwAqAaa8zUek0bELNzPodfaXqb5rxxr3UxM18q8VWnkVM8RyFK8MB9aK9F-_LnGXZqZaR5g1V_MP2kEhbEC433kKRc3cK9A7jBpuN6Xj8RaxZkuMPKYvKh8QWEuGoHkysRiGSlo6/s1600/IMG_1377.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Everything on the grill.  I also did a portabella mushroom... but literally forgot it on the grill.  Found it the next night.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivx_idotuoTxbwWImqmuvmxvHpM2pmAxDUfWoAYghhL3f020Q-O1q2FYC0ZQ4NUHv_Vtm-9Tq_aduXM81ue6jM-xdqQOMxo0_F9Q4YZqwNy8daSC3q81sviGAJ7NZrZa3czX4Ludl9bEdK/s1600/IMG_1379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivx_idotuoTxbwWImqmuvmxvHpM2pmAxDUfWoAYghhL3f020Q-O1q2FYC0ZQ4NUHv_Vtm-9Tq_aduXM81ue6jM-xdqQOMxo0_F9Q4YZqwNy8daSC3q81sviGAJ7NZrZa3czX4Ludl9bEdK/s1600/IMG_1379.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />I started with the tomatoes on the bottom rack, them moved them to the top after a couple of minutes because they began to char.  They worked great on the top, though - were perfectly melty when the steak was ready. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8cynKYw1X1Av3Qpz-X4rPAtZA3NQyTNTy6dm-Z4UoFtMIGAnthVG2EzoZ4dk_enF6NFUEVKgYR-cN4aEYWrKOY0PVx3xF0tE1XHz4UIpy2tskidFQxoJoKVtvV3nISVJoi05dePqann-H/s1600/IMG_1380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8cynKYw1X1Av3Qpz-X4rPAtZA3NQyTNTy6dm-Z4UoFtMIGAnthVG2EzoZ4dk_enF6NFUEVKgYR-cN4aEYWrKOY0PVx3xF0tE1XHz4UIpy2tskidFQxoJoKVtvV3nISVJoi05dePqann-H/s1600/IMG_1380.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Mike and I often share a porterhouse, which, I've recently learned is the same as a T-bone, but the filet section is larger because it is cut from a larger part of the loin.  One side of the bone is a strip, the other is a filet - I get the filet, Mike gets the strip : )<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsGS2b8us6X1RBrwLM0rD6wBi7-TEz-uYq6_-tw3knN4NFfGmVBHDxKeB4m9-bK9z3iQunJ6XpEVS521zrFf5Uz5MhM21vmBf3NrocJ5iUwxxDg3B-9xvbMOSXOltYmkmf1DqEdmDJraA/s1600/IMG_1401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsGS2b8us6X1RBrwLM0rD6wBi7-TEz-uYq6_-tw3knN4NFfGmVBHDxKeB4m9-bK9z3iQunJ6XpEVS521zrFf5Uz5MhM21vmBf3NrocJ5iUwxxDg3B-9xvbMOSXOltYmkmf1DqEdmDJraA/s1600/IMG_1401.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I grabbed some tarragon from our herb pots and ran inside to make the butter while everything finished cooking.  I made it in our mini food processor, but you could make a larger batch in a large one and keep it in the fridge for easy access.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRa1oKaEWhfcpA9tX9yBAbBJlfvPmvcSN-VEn9AiYl0atPZkOKUQPzB1T5udWLs-WnYEfovLZnOGSeBnGb02a1a6ENsJcyE6cfwgEUEXq_dhXmO_7Qtg-xlbR1ZEWhO3uvF3fZyzIOAtf_/s1600/IMG_1407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRa1oKaEWhfcpA9tX9yBAbBJlfvPmvcSN-VEn9AiYl0atPZkOKUQPzB1T5udWLs-WnYEfovLZnOGSeBnGb02a1a6ENsJcyE6cfwgEUEXq_dhXmO_7Qtg-xlbR1ZEWhO3uvF3fZyzIOAtf_/s1600/IMG_1407.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Any herb goes great with steaks - I think we'll be doing a thyme and rosemary blend next. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQx_LAEI6TeOS4xhmXAyNA060VUgAbNHiiKaJpcXhiuujHXZf72rLFTWKDbJ-tUsgQGAw9z8oWOe7J3IGXU6JCQpkQOViXEAYDppHNIrJDkWPsDWrAw5fIEKpqUj_jynJRgfxW3YEdD5IA/s1600/IMG_1412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQx_LAEI6TeOS4xhmXAyNA060VUgAbNHiiKaJpcXhiuujHXZf72rLFTWKDbJ-tUsgQGAw9z8oWOe7J3IGXU6JCQpkQOViXEAYDppHNIrJDkWPsDWrAw5fIEKpqUj_jynJRgfxW3YEdD5IA/s1600/IMG_1412.jpg" width="524" /></a></div>As I often do, I put everything on one platter for serving.  It makes this simple dinner looks like something special when it is all piled together.<br /><br />These tomatoes were my favorite part of the meal - very summery.  I told Emma they were tiny pizzas.<br /><br />I also topped the zucchini & squash with a little parmesan just before serving.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAl5D8R7z8YDykqcxC0UsuGkNT9KrJxCUbzFMXO6JEqbIH60Y87GOPxaruDDzMDpp3GJ9aIiZnzTPRWNWQUtTnQYp8SMMQ8Qc9gCBt7KnPYOkVZIHJ5b3dHw3sIfiQ_nsuo5rpmSTwddJ7/s1600/IMG_1423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAl5D8R7z8YDykqcxC0UsuGkNT9KrJxCUbzFMXO6JEqbIH60Y87GOPxaruDDzMDpp3GJ9aIiZnzTPRWNWQUtTnQYp8SMMQ8Qc9gCBt7KnPYOkVZIHJ5b3dHw3sIfiQ_nsuo5rpmSTwddJ7/s1600/IMG_1423.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Jtu5_Q30rL9or6p6L21FBujxzynFCKQiCFLy5ASOpV4eixxij2_oybCYxDNIAuQ-JI1JrdEVs7srN6b6iZ6d5qqvFZ842NUlzd7K6UopEgHlKSCILpHuUkAHUj0p-KtaEmTC-zUasCPy/s1600/IMG_1425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>The steak was so good - the herb butter makes it just a little bit more special.<br /><br />I'm planning to share some of my favorite recipes for the 4th this week (and next) along with a couple of new festive baking recipes and products.  I'd love to here your favorite recipes for summer holidays, too.  Happy Monday - I'm off to go package some products : )<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpNKGo9N_tWyE-xPQbWJxCyAP8hYLcLXfnO60QGFKJlALsIewBNcHJJaTzEEGNR54fDa5dk3plyUDPtN3YGr8DZiXJck-cEOK4ES45vRJSSJNOCWwcERJO1KAHD9FpslO47dLWgfUwBJG/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpNKGo9N_tWyE-xPQbWJxCyAP8hYLcLXfnO60QGFKJlALsIewBNcHJJaTzEEGNR54fDa5dk3plyUDPtN3YGr8DZiXJck-cEOK4ES45vRJSSJNOCWwcERJO1KAHD9FpslO47dLWgfUwBJG/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-pE022CNppAw%2FU5XO2Gb6ndI%2FAAAAAAAAXWI%2F5ykeVZxheHw%2Fs1600%2FIMG_1370.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpNKGo9N_tWyE-xPQbWJxCyAP8hYLcLXfnO60QGFKJlALsIewBNcHJJaTzEEGNR54fDa5dk3plyUDPtN3YGr8DZiXJck-cEOK4ES45vRJSSJNOCWwcERJO1KAHD9FpslO47dLWgfUwBJG/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" -->

Grilling with Herbs | Steaks & Herb Butter, Tomatoes & Basil, Squash & Thyme

During the summertime, recipes sort of go out the window around our house.  It is more about fresh, simple flavors drizzled with a little of...

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Brown Sugar & Sesame Steak Kebab Marinade

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCjeHIND9y_C6JiQqHJlWMOeRz_i3kPVkk42A7NnN2STt37ktQs-FksYhqKIEFDM8ncnzTwTsGl9ZetsSrX7SkB8NVaHWUsYHzMIRcSmfwYRvmR7CxZBkluotnYkd-nNFdGnB_2CM2ZHk/s1600/IMG_1503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCjeHIND9y_C6JiQqHJlWMOeRz_i3kPVkk42A7NnN2STt37ktQs-FksYhqKIEFDM8ncnzTwTsGl9ZetsSrX7SkB8NVaHWUsYHzMIRcSmfwYRvmR7CxZBkluotnYkd-nNFdGnB_2CM2ZHk/s640/IMG_1503.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I probably sound like a broken record - but I love Kebabs.  You can read more about my testaments (love affair?), here in my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/brown-sugar-chili-lime-grilled-chicken.html">Brown Sugar Chili Lime Chicken Kebabs post</a>.  Really, I think a great kebabs are all about the marinade.  During the fall and winter months, we love <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/12/filet-mignon-filet-of-beef-seared.html">searing our steaks</a> on the stove-top seasoned with just salt and pepper, but... during the warm months we start craving more flavor.  Because kebabs are cut into smaller pieces, then marinaded, you end up with really flavorful steak.  This is a simple recipe - you don't even have to use the sesame oil if you don't have it, any oil will work.<br /><br />For the more details about our <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/06/an-outdoor-dinner-party-on-our-porch.html">Outdoor Dinner Party</a>, including table setting and the menu, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/06/an-outdoor-dinner-party-on-our-porch.html">click here</a>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGTCNhJKR-3COsYJeJEnGUtkPsi2knIjl9zZD70r8qPvCy5inRqnhvnwc9TvpkZUJQEB_qKtm_K715qR9odgBrIdjqq49uOGEv7eGe0q5d9SAvgA_fKhX5WdQzQQP2XBTOAhkuXw138c0/s1600/steak-kebabs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGTCNhJKR-3COsYJeJEnGUtkPsi2knIjl9zZD70r8qPvCy5inRqnhvnwc9TvpkZUJQEB_qKtm_K715qR9odgBrIdjqq49uOGEv7eGe0q5d9SAvgA_fKhX5WdQzQQP2XBTOAhkuXw138c0/s640/steak-kebabs.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>Brown Sugar & Sesame<br /><i><span style="font-size: large;">Steak Kebab Marinade </span></i><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fbrown-sugar-sesame-steak-kebab-marinade.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iC8CVMR7pqQ%2FUcmm9C66v4I%2FAAAAAAAAS0w%2FOhs_0NGEi6A%2Fs640%2Fsteak-kebabs.jpg&description=The%20BEST%20Brown%20Sugar%20%26%20Sesame%20Steak%20Kebab%20Marinade%20"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />2 pounds of steak (I used strip steaks)<br />Vegetables (I used squash)<br />1/3 cup soy sauce<br />1/3 cup of brown sugar <br />1/3 cup toasted (dark) sesame oil<br />2 tablespoons minced garlic<br />Sea Salt & Pepper<br />Wooden Skewers <br /><br />Soak skewers in water for 30 minutes.<br /><br />Trim fat from steaks and cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes.  Slice squash into thin rounds.  <br /><br />In a large bowl, stir together soy, brown sugar, oil and garlic.  Add vegetables and steak.  Toss to coat.  Let marinade in the refrigerator (if you have time - up to overnight).<br /><br />Skewer before grilling.  Grill on high flame for 2 minutes on each side until hot pink in the middle - it will not take very long!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJqYch6kS0fSpzQXRChGNdQWNMc81JLKd7WDmw9U0fDs2td_wk1Po0vztOO08fIiM2rMXEkXD6X-dnKHAHbnPWuC2tN6oY52W4vmNWpy8zHvkzzWqojeAOFHsrztKoEaVv2vSteIXRx0/s1600/IMG_1500.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJqYch6kS0fSpzQXRChGNdQWNMc81JLKd7WDmw9U0fDs2td_wk1Po0vztOO08fIiM2rMXEkXD6X-dnKHAHbnPWuC2tN6oY52W4vmNWpy8zHvkzzWqojeAOFHsrztKoEaVv2vSteIXRx0/s640/IMG_1500.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjroEi5kzYUAmqjGU26HFjmLkRULee1QylQ-6iHOgx2BYdQZKjXjTUt5B9wT0aDDrzJXAA8rZQtqPP9Qf-1JFaAUXwB9sAolXFZ5ilmVZl0yRdshvYUalInPK0AItCFNH7pv-8AOJ8AY_Y/s1600/IMG_1485.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjroEi5kzYUAmqjGU26HFjmLkRULee1QylQ-6iHOgx2BYdQZKjXjTUt5B9wT0aDDrzJXAA8rZQtqPP9Qf-1JFaAUXwB9sAolXFZ5ilmVZl0yRdshvYUalInPK0AItCFNH7pv-8AOJ8AY_Y/s640/IMG_1485.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>I served our kebabs with simple grilled fingerling potatoes... recipe to come!<br /><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F06%2Fbrown-sugar-sesame-steak-kebab-marinade.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iC8CVMR7pqQ%2FUcmm9C66v4I%2FAAAAAAAAS0w%2FOhs_0NGEi6A%2Fs640%2Fsteak-kebabs.jpg&description=The%20BEST%20Brown%20Sugar%20%26%20Sesame%20Steak%20Kebab%20Marinade%20"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Brown Sugar & Sesame Steak Kebab Marinade

  I probably sound like a broken record - but I love Kebabs.  You can read more about my testaments (love affair?), here in my Brown Sugar C...

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Steaks with a Sweet Shallot Wine Sauce

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUF9mA68Oh_VF02ESsbAaWz5uIPDmRFhAT0ObYhoCy_iLO4jO6pekQb9qkp_T21_n7j12cWR9gqGTmwilyq6z6iWDPH_2DKDa79Gdj9tJHgBzTj7xA4V74-KxlAdlfwbqmOsp_f7Y0x0/s1600/IMG_9418.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUF9mA68Oh_VF02ESsbAaWz5uIPDmRFhAT0ObYhoCy_iLO4jO6pekQb9qkp_T21_n7j12cWR9gqGTmwilyq6z6iWDPH_2DKDa79Gdj9tJHgBzTj7xA4V74-KxlAdlfwbqmOsp_f7Y0x0/s640/IMG_9418.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F04%2Fsteaks-with-sweet-shallot-wine-sauce.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-33cJLgGpH2w%2FUWRYTKWwyUI%2FAAAAAAAAR4g%2F2UzyNSMSLG4%2Fs400%2Fsteaks-and-shallot-sauce_03.jpg&description=Steaks%20with%20Sweet%20Shallot%20Wine%20Sauce"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I've said (way too many times...) whenever I ask Mike what he'd like to have for dinner, or what he'd like me to serve if we're having company the answer is usually steak (and a <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/03/chocolate-cake-not-from-box-and-it.html">chocolate cake</a>, for that matter).  Sometimes I resist, insisting that we should try something new and different that I can blog about.   </div><br />Last weekend we were having the same conversation on Sunday night, then I thought - I bet everyone has this conversation with their husband.  Instead of resisting, I decided to prepare the steaks as we always do (<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/12/filet-mignon-filet-of-beef-seared.html">seared on the stove, finished in the oven</a>...), but try a new sauce on top and a new interesting side.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjex_M8Vmrak-8WGXv_9cwhounJu5lEZjH1_D5__F-ZJ94OdcZcM8z_OOhY6Bnd0dpUEsq3jFhfIwaOtrjHGu2kv1u2RvgonRy7oviygt-Dm0JOaY6P2d3FbYL7MtKmrVSByOuK420wgfk/s1600/IMG_9432.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjex_M8Vmrak-8WGXv_9cwhounJu5lEZjH1_D5__F-ZJ94OdcZcM8z_OOhY6Bnd0dpUEsq3jFhfIwaOtrjHGu2kv1u2RvgonRy7oviygt-Dm0JOaY6P2d3FbYL7MtKmrVSByOuK420wgfk/s640/IMG_9432.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>The interesting side (besides the roasted asparagus) was a curry cauliflower gratin... it needs a little work, but the steak sauce was a definite keeper.  Inspired by Ina's Veal Chops with Caramelized Shallots (yes, I'm still working my way through <i>Foolproof</i>...), I prepared my own version of the Caramelize Shallot sauce and served it over seared steaks.  Her recipe called for sherry vinegar and port wine, neither of which I had, but I used red wine and it worked great.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-6zFiMuuBUqgEG6lo1OQdRFl7Cm94lToWD_Q7YH66yT0SBPVCsb_KfTp9gz45Bfi0se2tiVA182mVkqQ4ee6cvLG7YDIAA2Gy1pLB_xEA-lsi__4zYqiX5H9Rq9sLMdh68A9LtepVDE/s1600/IMG_9423.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-6zFiMuuBUqgEG6lo1OQdRFl7Cm94lToWD_Q7YH66yT0SBPVCsb_KfTp9gz45Bfi0se2tiVA182mVkqQ4ee6cvLG7YDIAA2Gy1pLB_xEA-lsi__4zYqiX5H9Rq9sLMdh68A9LtepVDE/s640/IMG_9423.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I mentioned <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2013/04/a-porch-kind-of-weekend-breakfast.html">in my last post, we had all of our meals on the porch</a> last weekend to take advantage of the first real springy weekend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zFBSvaNXbwzH4XpzToyH8ymT7IpsMbbkFHu31iVRhWB3dHpGfQq25s22PbJx8oqnswoaZUpdVd7y4YFKYY6Xeuql2I-Cwq544In5bMZpwGmQId9nK3_k_QFg8brS07VfWTpSY8QRx48/s1600/steaks-and-shallot-sauce_03.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zFBSvaNXbwzH4XpzToyH8ymT7IpsMbbkFHu31iVRhWB3dHpGfQq25s22PbJx8oqnswoaZUpdVd7y4YFKYY6Xeuql2I-Cwq544In5bMZpwGmQId9nK3_k_QFg8brS07VfWTpSY8QRx48/s400/steaks-and-shallot-sauce_03.jpg" width="311" /></a>I served the sauce over steaks that I seared in a skillet - my favorite way to prepare steaks.  Here is <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/12/filet-mignon-filet-of-beef-seared.html">the link with step-by-step instructions</a> that has recently taken off on pinterest... I guess everyone <i>is</i> looking for a great way to make steaks at home.  Here I used strip steaks, but you can use your favorite cut.</div><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Sweet Shallot Wine Sauce</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/12/filet-mignon-filet-of-beef-seared.html">Seared Steaks</a></i><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F04%2Fsteaks-with-sweet-shallot-wine-sauce.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-33cJLgGpH2w%2FUWRYTKWwyUI%2FAAAAAAAAR4g%2F2UzyNSMSLG4%2Fs400%2Fsteaks-and-shallot-sauce_03.jpg&description=Steaks%20with%20Sweet%20Shallot%20Wine%20Sauce"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />6 whole shallots<br />6 cloves of garlic<br />4 tablespoons of butter<br />Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper<br />1 cup of red wine<br />1 1/2 tablespoon of brown sugar<br />red pepper flakes, </span><span style="font-size: small;">small pinch of </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">1 teaspoon of fresh thyme<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.<br /><br />Peel outer paper skin from shallots and trim the roots off leaving the end intact to hold it together.  Cut them into quarters lengthwise.  </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZFy-KNs2hUGXF7o4vex4Xo8WQn4jlJOWL5ytaVX352BuiLQ8dwVf16rVNpdpFSnMhDTnDI611WvCUrkqocMAzupYBBmPp40q9-fYRfV-hoJNMAbZL93Cpeg8cHZD5h4-SJdfXBnGWlI/s1600/IMG_9402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZFy-KNs2hUGXF7o4vex4Xo8WQn4jlJOWL5ytaVX352BuiLQ8dwVf16rVNpdpFSnMhDTnDI611WvCUrkqocMAzupYBBmPp40q9-fYRfV-hoJNMAbZL93Cpeg8cHZD5h4-SJdfXBnGWlI/s640/IMG_9402.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: small;">In a large ovenproof pan, melt half of the butter then add the shallots, garlic, salt and pepper.  Cook for a couple of minutes then place the pan in the oven for 30 minutes.  Toss half way through.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNdD1moJPCTZOBVHQOFwcTavNg-s8IrgLkqWwdOLjIeclpwa_QnVZWMXo4hK551Lj1QxpUa-f2WYYKiGQSfodPC-FO1MXsQ-f_Hl_uoPDNOwHrFZIuzu3ZOaDSyMqU2cajqhxmw4yyc4/s1600/IMG_9405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNdD1moJPCTZOBVHQOFwcTavNg-s8IrgLkqWwdOLjIeclpwa_QnVZWMXo4hK551Lj1QxpUa-f2WYYKiGQSfodPC-FO1MXsQ-f_Hl_uoPDNOwHrFZIuzu3ZOaDSyMqU2cajqhxmw4yyc4/s640/IMG_9405.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QhC5YurMHBufsqLDkx57zllY3graXfBjZKHgZyw4Cj0c1LiG7dP7qjvbAUNYL7FIH3Y26NgvQJXYbHCIP7hAduCu8RkiwISD-RVz5vmEM5monyM4DpTHzB2DQl5zjw9zWjB9ZI0PEaU/s1600/IMG_9424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QhC5YurMHBufsqLDkx57zllY3graXfBjZKHgZyw4Cj0c1LiG7dP7qjvbAUNYL7FIH3Y26NgvQJXYbHCIP7hAduCu8RkiwISD-RVz5vmEM5monyM4DpTHzB2DQl5zjw9zWjB9ZI0PEaU/s640/IMG_9424.jpg" width="426" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Remove the pan from the oven and place it on the stove top.  Add the rest of the butter and wine.  Bring to a simmer and cook for 6 minutes until thickened.  Add brown sugar, red pepper flakes and thyme.  Cook for just 1 more minute until thick.  Serve poured over steaks.</span> <br /><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F04%2Fsteaks-with-sweet-shallot-wine-sauce.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-33cJLgGpH2w%2FUWRYTKWwyUI%2FAAAAAAAAR4g%2F2UzyNSMSLG4%2Fs400%2Fsteaks-and-shallot-sauce_03.jpg&description=Steaks%20with%20Sweet%20Shallot%20Wine%20Sauce"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br />Because steaks are such a great (and popular) option to serve for entertaining, I plan to do more versions of "Steaks and Sides" - share with me your favorites!  I'll let you know if I ever get the Curry Cauliflower Gratin worked out...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Steaks with a Sweet Shallot Wine Sauce

As I've said (way too many times...) whenever I ask Mike what he'd like to have for dinner, or what he'd like me to serve if we...

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A Porch Kind of Weekend - Breakfast & Dinner alfresco

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXvH13g9izsv6hErPam8-3o77FKfkC88T3e8AdvygCVi8E8M40YGnZfVv7idHDdam9y8I8oXT7Fow0GbLxlDRIri7B2kxDHPZoplZhBSzsCqyEg_ZdnCM-PG5bn1ETY8FwzcGQ3Elz78/s1600/IMG_9349.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXvH13g9izsv6hErPam8-3o77FKfkC88T3e8AdvygCVi8E8M40YGnZfVv7idHDdam9y8I8oXT7Fow0GbLxlDRIri7B2kxDHPZoplZhBSzsCqyEg_ZdnCM-PG5bn1ETY8FwzcGQ3Elz78/s640/IMG_9349.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>It officially feels like spring - thank goodness.  We took advantage of every peep of the sunshine this weekend having almost all of our meals outside on the porch.<br /><br />When <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-before-house-tour-be-kind-dont.html">we bought the house the cozy little side porch</a> was a huge motivation for us.  Like home buyers do, I had visions of us drinking our morning coffee out there and sipping on wine in the evenings - and this weekend we fulfilled that and more.  Unfortunately, I think to often people don't make an effort to live out their 'perfect life' visions.   <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9k4bzed8o0uepQSObAdYboMYuJNLPm7NvfiSMuNJmCYsrfOQAQJh2IMMuVgD9zlQ4GkrMfCTkj2IHUdjq3hSC1U7TblF1y9G5kVTJOFz1k_DH4mciCISe8zHHrc9XqSOsLMXYQeIZSw/s1600/IMG_9350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9k4bzed8o0uepQSObAdYboMYuJNLPm7NvfiSMuNJmCYsrfOQAQJh2IMMuVgD9zlQ4GkrMfCTkj2IHUdjq3hSC1U7TblF1y9G5kVTJOFz1k_DH4mciCISe8zHHrc9XqSOsLMXYQeIZSw/s640/IMG_9350.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Emma and I spent the end of last week gathering various flowers, herbs and pots to plant outside.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmOh_XDXPbSbzAO65Rhj7bsc6lGUulSaeLUrsszEKR1OuKl-E_4Rn2PUWuAgATKqOZX0EFUPUEJhmwll_MtLpz5CMO8Wl9CRS7CLJ_FksRcdZO5BvRTxJp6bkkENXG1C0HbzaHqkZAkA/s1600/IMG_9346.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmOh_XDXPbSbzAO65Rhj7bsc6lGUulSaeLUrsszEKR1OuKl-E_4Rn2PUWuAgATKqOZX0EFUPUEJhmwll_MtLpz5CMO8Wl9CRS7CLJ_FksRcdZO5BvRTxJp6bkkENXG1C0HbzaHqkZAkA/s640/IMG_9346.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />These fern lavender were the best find of the weekend.  They smell great and will bloom like this all Spring/Summer.  Aren't they whimsical? <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh1yWKTiQuQEtB9aDteh2KHtA5LIWdBYRB7431k80FLOOZ6P1rfotqZsb_MFEq_eod-hNdraRuhxq5LEIrXxXktbdjHGpbIT5Ie4jGoj6EQajFuuXO9QivGtUjrQjS1Npc7MV5bAIETM/s1600/IMG_9371.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbh1yWKTiQuQEtB9aDteh2KHtA5LIWdBYRB7431k80FLOOZ6P1rfotqZsb_MFEq_eod-hNdraRuhxq5LEIrXxXktbdjHGpbIT5Ie4jGoj6EQajFuuXO9QivGtUjrQjS1Npc7MV5bAIETM/s640/IMG_9371.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Our porch weekend started with a little get together with homemade pizza + friends + kids + dogs on Saturday night.  So, when we woke up on Sunday morning we were searching for something to eat with our coffee... 10 minutes later Cinnamon (pizza) Bread was ready.  Recipe coming soon.  It was sooo good and silly easy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qeaGk5mFRp1c_Ck21rmUR0fPSv_fpZJUMftYTehm3SqbsPD7evk9IliJ3rnsH-QBnThDsA4e4RDzjzKihCxAd7jz5OJq_ctldOQQMQ9MrwP0rjNxkLIldOP1Tvyo5eV8JlLZ-6V0bo4/s1600/IMG_9354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qeaGk5mFRp1c_Ck21rmUR0fPSv_fpZJUMftYTehm3SqbsPD7evk9IliJ3rnsH-QBnThDsA4e4RDzjzKihCxAd7jz5OJq_ctldOQQMQ9MrwP0rjNxkLIldOP1Tvyo5eV8JlLZ-6V0bo4/s640/IMG_9354.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />I planted a couple of strawberry plants in pots on the porch, too.  Because the strawberry plants were fairly minimal, I added some of these muscari that had already bloomed in our yard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuj-7s9V4Ksk-Wg70SeSF17okoy9GwC9YTUATWF8xxHeEPpL5fm-rJ-CjFhd20lOrNKHxy4ufgWUkKKNRnHvVqkq_D6hDWioX4tL7PA1MxtuEOCHuGNFBDTjBawSDmA2d0t8PCI37TDWA/s1600/IMG_9355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuj-7s9V4Ksk-Wg70SeSF17okoy9GwC9YTUATWF8xxHeEPpL5fm-rJ-CjFhd20lOrNKHxy4ufgWUkKKNRnHvVqkq_D6hDWioX4tL7PA1MxtuEOCHuGNFBDTjBawSDmA2d0t8PCI37TDWA/s640/IMG_9355.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love how they are peeking above the strawberry plants.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VpPYg8Yduc3i-dWWA9k6wF9fJZ5ezmIwJihftOh-HFKqlhqrPZ43aBlGuL_8zo18-fEbkHx_FxyaV5UhhWgl-vWRQ60-4O6LRCg2c8sIAnBc4_EnujOFJIzo1EjgHr3NfQdlAnMR4oE/s1600/IMG_9383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VpPYg8Yduc3i-dWWA9k6wF9fJZ5ezmIwJihftOh-HFKqlhqrPZ43aBlGuL_8zo18-fEbkHx_FxyaV5UhhWgl-vWRQ60-4O6LRCg2c8sIAnBc4_EnujOFJIzo1EjgHr3NfQdlAnMR4oE/s640/IMG_9383.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got these G. Wolff & Co. pots this year at a fabulous local nursery called Red Cedar.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqfmgCtKI3niuj4gX7U_Mx91gLzkotH9wgHwwZXYzXyOIzrEd_cZbgemlhylG2bb9G3D_5YYUa7m_IWtFrfilGl_3MWV35w9Tm7XRtOsix-TegzVqNIcWkOPABWh16XaRSo9Wq77Xla4/s1600/IMG_9384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqfmgCtKI3niuj4gX7U_Mx91gLzkotH9wgHwwZXYzXyOIzrEd_cZbgemlhylG2bb9G3D_5YYUa7m_IWtFrfilGl_3MWV35w9Tm7XRtOsix-TegzVqNIcWkOPABWh16XaRSo9Wq77Xla4/s640/IMG_9384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I had purchased these pots there three years ago.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_yXDQhfjvhCW9yqQPf8voWWzD5qOCxW3VtGch8SnYv7pZOU6KyiPfczCCybKuGBXd6GhxfaslJfXkFtJMYOv-Vh88X3zArFg6Praoky-Iv1hu57jQjsHz61Pt5uR_ggfqzTIbYHlqedM/s1600/IMG_9389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_yXDQhfjvhCW9yqQPf8voWWzD5qOCxW3VtGch8SnYv7pZOU6KyiPfczCCybKuGBXd6GhxfaslJfXkFtJMYOv-Vh88X3zArFg6Praoky-Iv1hu57jQjsHz61Pt5uR_ggfqzTIbYHlqedM/s640/IMG_9389.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While I was fixing cinnamon bread and snapping photos, backyard wagon rides began.  Bunny ears and all.<br /><br />After some yard work and many more wagon rides...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-SRMNSIqfueQucC5BRkN5T_171-3L7uRlDDS_M1kcgdDvVwyzHyqKnfmZcdbec5Jog8Lfp0wGjuX6EjWpGT7lD-Fsy9fFk05bSfbd6IdGqF7C5EfLmMt1ok_OcSuHX6HulyAx3Df5XP4/s1600/IMG_9423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-SRMNSIqfueQucC5BRkN5T_171-3L7uRlDDS_M1kcgdDvVwyzHyqKnfmZcdbec5Jog8Lfp0wGjuX6EjWpGT7lD-Fsy9fFk05bSfbd6IdGqF7C5EfLmMt1ok_OcSuHX6HulyAx3Df5XP4/s640/IMG_9423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Dinner was served.  On the porch. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgkImOn4FnEepWlSjuT3RKLpm5_SaO508O-wzDbbsgJpi0XCf2upwsUK_7IscB98of_OdK6Gfzqr8v4RPAYP5lLxK2qhsHAIVqUbt_HhDD6BzHw174JYcTz7TbjNRf0R4pZkqDdMm6wk/s1600/IMG_9418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgkImOn4FnEepWlSjuT3RKLpm5_SaO508O-wzDbbsgJpi0XCf2upwsUK_7IscB98of_OdK6Gfzqr8v4RPAYP5lLxK2qhsHAIVqUbt_HhDD6BzHw174JYcTz7TbjNRf0R4pZkqDdMm6wk/s640/IMG_9418.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Seared Steaks with a Sweet Shallot & Wine Sauce (inspired by the Barefoot Contessa's, of course).  Recipes coming later this week!

A Porch Kind of Weekend - Breakfast & Dinner alfresco

It officially feels like spring - thank goodness.  We took advantage of every peep of the sunshine this weekend having almost all of our m...

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