Dinner in 20: Flank Steak with Caramelized Onions

How to Choose the Best Steak

Need dinner on the table fast? Flank steak is easy to prepare, quick to cook, and low in calories, says Boston-area chef Michael Schlow, author of the cookbook It's About Time. "It absorbs marinades well and grills evenly." Here, Schlow's tips for buying the best steak.

Be picky. Look for a cut that is deep red in color and has white specks of fat, which give the meat flavor.

Buy a thick cut. Choose a steak that's one to two inches thick so it will be brown on the outside but medium rare on the inside after grilling.

Serve, don't store. The steak will stay fresh for up to three days, but for the juiciest texture and best flavor, marinate and cook it within a day or two of purchase.

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, November/December 2009.