Since Asian flavors are an American favorite, and they’re especially complementary to beef, try an Asian-inspired marinade the next time you grill.

This ginger-soy-sesame marinade pairs with another favorite – beef flank steak – for a spectacular entrée. An accompaniment of farmer’s market fresh squash can be grilled alongside the steak.

Not only will you grill a great-tasting meal, but also one that supplies important nutrients.You get beef’s nutrition powerhouse – zinc, iron, protein and B-vitamins – in every bite. Plus, flank steak is a lean beef choice.

To serve, use a sharp knife and carve the flank steak diagonally across the grain into thin slices.

ASIAN BEEF STEAK & SUMMER SQUASH
Total preparation and cooking time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 6 hours or overnight

1          beef flank steak (about 1-1/2 pounds)

3          medium zucchini or yellow summer squash, cut lengthwise in half

1          teaspoon vegetable oil

Marinade:

1/4       cup soy sauce

1/4       cup finely chopped green onions

2          tablespoons water

2          table spoons packed brown sugar

1-1/2    tablespoons dark sesame oil

1          teaspoon minced garlic

1          teaspoon minced fresh ginger

1/4       teaspoon pepper 

1.    Combine marinade ingredients in small bowl. Remove and reserve 1/4 cup. Place beef steak and remaining marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn steak to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 6 hours or as long as overnight.

2.    Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Brush squash lightly with oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper, as desired. Place steak and squash on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill steak, uncovered, 17 to 21 minutes for medium rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally. Grill squash 15 minutes or until tender, turning occasionally.

3.    Place reserved marinade in small saucepan; heat until hot. Carve steak across the grain into thin slices; spoon hot reserved marinade over beef. Serve with squash.

Makes 6 servings  

Nutrition information per serving: 232 calories; 25g protein; 6g carbohydrate; 12g fat;
723mg sodium; 57mg cholesterol; 4.9mg niacin; 0.4mg vitamin B-6; 2.8mcg vitamin B-12; 2.9mg iron; 4.3mg zinc.

Courtesy of the Cattlemen's Beef Board and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.

For additional grilled beef recipes, send a self-addressed, stamped business-size envelope to National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Dept. FC-123,