Salsa Verde is one of the most versatile sauces to have in your culinary repertoire. Besides pairing with beef, it is excellent with fish and chicken as well as vegetables, especially roasted carrots or potatoes. It should keep for a few days in the refrigerator if covered well with plastic wrap, so feel free to make the full amount below.

Flat Iron Steak is a fantastic cut of meat to have on hand for a quick, midweek supper. Besides lending itself to a speedy preparation (it only requires a few minutes in the skillet and a few more to rest), it is full of juicy flavor due to its characteristic marbling. Here I pair it with salsa verde and, because it’s still so wonderfully possible, fresh sliced garden tomatoes on the side.
Tip: My Trader Joe’s carries flat iron steak in 8 oz packages, which is just perfect for two light meat eaters.

Use a stovetop grill, broiler, or outdoor grill for these tasty seasoned pork chops.

I love a good gin and tonic in the summertime, and I also enjoy more exotic, herb-tinged sparklers. But lately my drink of choice has been simpler, lower in alcohol and lower in calories. It’s sparkling and perfectly refreshing. If you are looking for a drink that is not sweet at all, and that has only light flavor, this might be up your alley. I have found it wonderfully refreshing, and a nice substitute for a more alcoholic (and calorie-laden) cocktail.