Flank Steak

Flank steak is so easy to make, and it's pretty economical too. (It's not a cheap cut of beef, like cube steak though.) Andy and I usually get two meals off of one (1.5-lb.) steak, which costs about $10. I served it with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli (which I drizzled with balsamic vinegar right before serving), and Cheese-Black Pepper Muffins (I used this recipe but omitted the sausage and added 2 tsp. black pepper).

Flank Steak
Make sure you have your vent hood fan on high; this will smoke!
1. Sprinkle both sides of steak with salt, pepper, and grill seasoning. Heat grill pan over high heat; cook steak for 12 minutes on one side, 10 minutes on the other. The meat will have a warm red center (medium). Slice in thin strips across the grain.

Mashed Potatoes
4 Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks (These have very thin skins, so I don't peel them.)
4 Tbsp. butter
Salt
Pepper
3/4 cup sour cream

1. Bring potatoes and water to cover to a boil. Cook 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Drain and return to pot.
2. Mash potatoes with a potato masher (I prefer a chunky texture). Stir in butter until it melts. Stir in salt, pepper, and sour cream.