Ribeye Steak for lunch

#### Instructions:

##### 1. **Prepare the Steak:**
– Take the ribeye steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
– Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with browning.
– Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

##### 2. **Heat the Pan:**
– Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium-high heat for a few minutes until it’s hot. Adding a small amount of oil or butter to the pan helps create a crispy, flavorful crust.

##### 3. **Cook the Steak:**
– Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook without moving it for about 4-5 minutes, depending on thickness, until the underside is nicely browned.
– Flip the steak and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare (adjust the time based on your preferred doneness). For a thicker cut, you may need to reduce the heat to medium and cook a little longer to ensure the inside reaches your desired level of doneness.
– Add the smashed garlic and a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to the pan to infuse additional flavors while the steak cooks. For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of butter toward the end of cooking and spoon the melted butter over the steak.

##### 4. **Rest the Steak:**
– Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy, tender steak.

##### 5. **Serve:**
– After resting, slice the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve it on a plate with your favorite sides.

#### What to Serve with Ribeye Steak for Lunch?

Ribeye steak is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your lunch to the next level. Here are some ideas:

1. **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are an excellent choice. Their caramelized exterior complements the savory steak.

2. **Garlic Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic pair wonderfully with the rich steak.

3. **Grilled Asparagus:** Lightly grilled or roasted asparagus with a squeeze of lemon offers a fresh, zesty contrast to the beef.

4. **Caesar Salad:** A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a creamy dressing provides a crisp, refreshing balance to the rich steak.

5. **Sautéed Spinach:** Spinach cooked with garlic and a touch of olive oil makes for a healthy, flavorful side that complements the richness of the ribeye.

#### Tips for the Perfect Ribeye Steak Lunch:

1. **Invest in Good Quality Meat:** When it comes to steaks, the quality of the meat matters. Choose a well-marbled, high-quality ribeye steak for the best flavor and texture.

2. **Resting Is Key:** Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the steak rest after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender. Cutting into the steak too soon can cause the juices to spill out, leading to a drier steak.

3. **Use a Meat Thermometer:** If you’re unsure about the steak’s doneness, using a meat thermometer is a great way to get it just right. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).

4. **Season Well:** Don’t be afraid to season your steak generously. A well-seasoned steak makes all the difference in flavor.

5. **Optional Steak Sauces:** While ribeye steak is flavorful on its own, you can serve it with a simple sauce like a balsamic glaze, chimichurri, or a classic béarnaise sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

#### Conclusion:

A **ribeye steak for lunch** is a satisfying and delicious option when you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. With its tender texture, rich flavor, and juicy interior, ribeye steak is perfect for a midday meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Paired with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, it’s a meal that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, ribeye steak is always a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance to your lunch.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and fulfilling meal, treat yourself to a perfectly cooked ribeye steak—you deserve it!