MARINATED FLANK STEAK WITH SUMMER SALSA by Jennie Holman Blake

Steak and Creole Seasoning

1 (2-3 lb.) flank steak
¼c. olive oil

2½ T. paprika
2 T. salt
2 T. garlic powder
1 T. black pepper
1 T. onion powder
1 T. cayenne pepper
1 T. dried leaf oregano
1 T. dried thyme

Coat flank steak with olive oil. Rub one tablespoon Creole seasoning mix onto each side of meat. Store unused seasoning mix in an airtight container. Marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Grill the flank steak to medium rare, about six minutes per side over high heat. Let steak rest 5-10 minutes before slicing. Slice steak on a bias against the grain. To serve, fan out slices and top with summer salsa.

Summer Salsa

½ cantaloupe, diced
1 jalapeno, minced
1 c. blackberries
½ c. red bell pepper, small diced
1 medium red onion, large diced
½ lemon, juiced
1 bunch green onions, chopped
chopped fresh parsley and cilantro to taste
season with salt and freshly ground red pepper

Yield: serves 4-6

JENNIE'S NOTE: There is a very small, somewhat unknown camping area right after you cross the Golden Gate Bridge on the Sausalito side. There are only four camp spots on a bluff overlooking the beach and you have to book a year in advance. At night you can leave the kids sleeping in the tent and take the little path down and sit on the beach with the bridge lit up and watch the enormous freight ships pass through. It’s pure summer magic. We’ve done this for about six years with a group of friends, and this meal has become an annual request. You’re welcome to come join us any year!

Melba's Note: How do I describe Jennie? She was the first LDS democrat and feminist that I ever knew. We shared a boyfriend (without knowing it) our senior years of high school, and spent four months in Israel 2 years later laughing about it. (Hi Ben!) Jen and her husband both have law degrees from BYU and three adorable kids - including a set of twins! Jen's one of the most intelligent and wonderful people I know. I miss lying awake in our room in Israel listening to the interesting things she says in her sleep. :) Jen - I hope we get to join you for the camping trip soon!