Downward Dogs and Marinades

As part of my spring resolution, I started taking yoga and kickboxing classes. Spring is such a time for rebirth and change that I'd rather start something now then January. Besides, a girl's got to get out her pent up energy somehow!
So I join a wonderful group of women of varried ages and athletic abilities twice a week. It's amazing - I'm starting to have abs! During my first class, it came out that I'm in the food service industry and I quickly became the group's go-to food consultant. One of my classmates was hosting a birthday dinner for her husband and was looking for quick and tasty grill ideas. Hopefully, these can become some of your favorites, too!
Sweet and Savory
1 medium flank steak
1 C Olive oil (Pomace, a cheaper and fruitier oil works well!)
1/2 C balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, sliced
4 sprigs of fresh thyme or 3 sprigs rosemary
Zest of one lime
1 tsp whole peppercorns
Blend all in a zip top plastic bag or glass baking pan. Let marinate at least 4 hours to overnight in the fridge, turning the meat once. Allow the steak to come to room temperature and salt liberally. Preheat grill to high heat. Char steak 3-4 minutes each side for medium rare, allowing the meat to rest at least 15 minutes prior to slicing.
Variations:
Substitute soy sauce for the balsamic and ginger for the zest and herbs for an Asian twist.
Use a bold red wine (red zin or cab sauv) in place of the vinegar, add 1 sliced onion and omit the lime zest for a French inspired steak.
These will also work for chicken and veggies, but may be too strong for delicate fish, depending on your taste.

If you're like me and think joining a mainstream industrial type gym won't keep you motivated, research dance studios in your area. Many are starting to offer yoga and other types of fitness classes. These classes are seriously one of the few things I will drag myself out of bed early for!Read more: http://chriscancook.pnn.com/12167-the-front-page#ixzz0DQ3iCLQq&B