Thanks Food Network!!

I was on the road this week and while the food was good, I can honestly say that nothing was really outstanding or memorable.  It was more about good company with colleagues and friends from work.  The best meal I had all week was the one that we cooked last Sunday.  It was simple.  It was quick. It was delicious.  And it would not have been possible without FoodNetwork.

In 1997 we subscribed to DishTV and were introduced to the FoodNetwork.  In those days it was almost all Emeril although on Saturday evening we laughed at Iron Chef dubbed in English.  Over the years we've watched it grow and evolve with a number of celebrity-chefs - Bobby Flay, Mario Batali, Giada, Rachael Ray and Michael Chiarello. 

My cooking has evolved along with FoodNetwork.  I've learned that my dishes don't have to be complicated nor take all day to prepare to be delicious and satiisfying.  The recipes I've learned have been good but it's really been the techniques and methods that have had the biggest impact on my kitchen game.

Our dinner last Sunday would not have been possible without what I've learned from my favorite celebrity chefs.

The menu....

Sirloin steak rubbed with olive oil and Montreal steak seasoning
Grilled red onion and portobello mushrooms
Grilled asparagus
Garden fresh salad

Nothing fancy or noteworthy except for a few simple items.

1. After grilling the steak I let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.  Sounds easy and it is; but what a difference it makes.
2. Grilled mushrooms and vegetables while steak rested.  Kept it simple and just brushed with olive oil with a light sprinkling of kosher salt.  Grilled over high heat.
3. The salad was fresh from our garden and dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

It was the best meal I had all week and took ~20 minutes start to finish.

Thanks Food Network!