Flank Steak With Manchego & Kabocha Crostini

Recipe Directions

1. For best results, take the steak out of the refrigerator 10 minutes before starting to cook. If you skip this step, you may need to cook the steak longer than this recipe card indicates. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees fahrenheit.
2. Place the crostini (a) on a foil-lined baking tray. Bake for 6 minutes in your preheated 425 degree oven.
3. While the crostini is baking, cut open the package of steak (b) and place on a plate. Season on both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. When the pan has warmed up, add 1 tbsp of oil or enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Place the steak into the pan and sear for 4 minutes.
4. When the bread has baked for 6 minutes, remove it from the oven. Spread 1/2 of the kabocha squash puree (c) on the pieces of crostini, making sure you distribute the puree evenly across the pieces. Save the other half of the puree for later. Then sprinkle the manchego and parmesan cheese (d) over the pieces of crostini. Return the crostini to the oven and bake for another 6 minutes.
5. When the steak has seared for 4 minutes, use tongs to flip the steak over and sear on the other side for 4 minutes. (This will cook the steak to medium-rare. Add 30 seconds of cook time to each side for medium). When the steak has finished cooking, place on a cutting board to rest.
6. At this point, the crostini should be ready. Remove the tray of crostini from the oven and switch your oven to the broiler setting on high temperature. Place the baking tray of crostini in your broiler for 30 to 60 seconds or until the cheese is golden brown. Then remove from the oven and let it rest.
7. Pour the mixed greens (e) into a mixing bowl. Add the apple dressing (f) and the smoked almonds (g) to the bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to combine the ingredients together.
8. Spoon the remaining puree onto your serving plates. Serve the salad on top of the puree, and place the crostini beside the salad. Slice the steak into 1/2 inch thick slices and place beside the crostini.