Ribeye Steak with asparagus

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribeye Steak:

• Remove the steaks from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This helps the steak cook evenly.
• Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Asparagus:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re planning to roast the asparagus, or use a stovetop skillet for sautéing.
• Toss the asparagus in olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
• For Roasting: Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender with slightly crispy edges.
• For Sautéing: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and bright green. For extra flavor, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

3. Sear the Ribeye Steak:

• Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Place the steaks in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired doneness (use a meat thermometer to check: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
• During the last minute of cooking, add the butter, garlic cloves, and thyme or rosemary to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks (called basting) for extra flavor.
• Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

4. Serve:

• Plate the ribeye steaks alongside the roasted or sautéed asparagus. If you like, drizzle any remaining garlic herb butter from the pan over the steaks for added richness.
• For a finishing touch, sprinkle the asparagus with a bit of freshly grated Parmesan or an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips for the Best Ribeye Steak and Asparagus:

1. Let the Steak Rest: Resting the steak is crucial to ensure it stays juicy. If you cut into it right after cooking, the juices will run out, leaving the steak dry.
2. Use High Heat for Searing: A hot pan creates a perfect crust on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Cast iron skillets are ideal for this because they retain heat well.
3. Butter Basting: Basting the steak with garlic and herb-infused butter during the last minute of cooking adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the steak moist.
4. Trim Asparagus Properly: To avoid tough, woody ends, trim asparagus by bending the stalk until it snaps naturally at the right point, or simply cut about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
5. Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading.

Why You’ll Love Ribeye Steak with Asparagus:

• Rich and Flavorful: The ribeye steak, with its marbling, delivers a rich, buttery flavor and juicy texture that makes it a favorite cut among steak lovers.
• Nutrient-Packed Asparagus: Asparagus is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and folate, making it a healthy and tasty side dish.
• Easy and Quick: Despite its elegance, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home in less than 30 minutes.
• Customizable: While the basic recipe is classic and delicious, you can add your own twist by seasoning the steak with different herbs, spices, or sauces like chimichurri or garlic butter. Similarly, the asparagus can be roasted, grilled, or sautéed with different flavors like balsamic glaze, Parmesan, or even wrapped in prosciutto.

Conclusion

Ribeye Steak with Asparagus is the epitome of a balanced, satisfying meal. The rich, juicy ribeye steak pairs perfectly with the bright, crisp asparagus for a simple yet elegant dinner. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a go-to for its flavor, ease, and timeless appeal. With a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that celebrates the natural flavors of high-quality ingredients.

Enjoy your steak and asparagus, and savor every bite!