Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak:
1.1. Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them come to room temperature while you prepare the sides.
1.2. Heat the Pan: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
1.3. Sear the Steaks: Add the steaks to the hot pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until your desired level of doneness is reached. Use tongs to flip the steaks to avoid piercing the meat and losing juices.
1.4. Add Flavor: If using, add the crushed garlic and thyme/rosemary to the pan halfway through cooking. For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan and baste the steaks with the melted butter during the last minute of cooking.
1.5. Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a plate, covered loosely with foil, for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
2. Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
2.1. Cook the Potatoes: Place the potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2.2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and garlic. Return to the pot and mash until smooth. Stir in the milk and butter, and season with salt and pepper. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed.
3. Prepare the Simple Green Beans:
3.1. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3.2. Sauté the Green Beans: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve:
4.1. Plate the Meal: Slice the rested steaks and serve alongside a generous portion of garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans.
4.2. Optional Garnish: Garnish the steak with a sprinkle of sea salt or a pat of compound butter if desired.
Enjoy your classic steak dinner with all the fixings! This meal is sure to impress and satisfy any steak lover.
