Perfectly Paired: Summer Solstice Date Night 

Tomorrow marks not only the first official day of summer (though it has certainly felt like summer for weeks now..!) but also Summer Solstice 2012. Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year and we think the best way to celebrate is to surprise your loved one with a Summer Solstice Date Night. No need to fret about the menu, we’ve got the perfect food and wine pairing picked out.

After following the Pioneer Woman’s grilling contest on her fabulous blog, we were inspired to share the winning T-Bone recipe! We love the first place recipe because it puts a fresh twist on your traditional T-Bone steak by combining a strawberry balsamic dressing to an all-natural steak. Yes, please! We sure are happy this is the longest day of the year because you won’t want this date night to end.

We suggest pairing this meal with a Merlot as it has enough tannin to hold up to the steak, while the gentle fruit taste will pair well with strawberries. If white wine is what you are craving, try a fruity Chardonnay. It carries fresh notes with a full bodied flavor—a nice choice for a wine that complements a savory fruit garnish. We always consult the wine experts at Wines.com when scoping out food and wine pairings–as it is truly the best place to beef up your vino knowledge. Check it out!

Summer Solstice T-bone Steaks with Peppercorn Butter and Strawberries

6 T-bone beef steaks (about 1-inch thick)

6 teaspoons kosher salt

2 teaspoons ground black pepper

3 cups strawberries

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 cup chopped basil plus 6 small sprigs of basil for garnish

1/2 cup salted butter, room temperature

1 tablespoons pickled green peppercorns

1 teaspoon coarse cracked black pepper

Preheat gas grill or prepare charcoal grill for direct heat grilling. Season steaks with salt and pepper

Grill steaks for 4-6 minutes per side or to your preferred doneness.

Meanwhile set 6 strawberries to the side for garnish and slice the rest. Combine sliced strawberries with balsamic vinegar, sugar and basil. Combine butter with green peppercorns and cracked black pepper.

Serve steaks hot from the grill. Top with peppercorn butter and strawberries. Garnish with reserved strawberry and basil.

Want date night to happen more often?! Join our Beef Club and make it a monlthy occurrence!

Since our founding in 1902, here at Branch Ranch Natural we have been committed to staying true our core belief that quality begins at the source. We have been fostering this understanding not only in the ways in which we certify excellence in our grass fed, grain finished natural beef but also in the ways in which we invest in the importance of family unity each and every day.

This Father’s Day, give Dad the gift of quality beef and quality time with a Branch Ranch Natural Beef Club Membership. He will have the wonderful opportunity to explore and prepare unique cuts of beef, as well as classic favorites throughout the year.  The memories made around the grill and at the table will foster and strengthen family ties for years to come.

Since Dad is now a member of the coolest club around, why not throw in a few other exciting accessories. Here are our suggestions on gifts galore for Father’s Day 2012.

1. Charred and Scrubbed Griller’s Guide We are always looking for new ideas and new sources inspiration when it comes to gathering around the grill and serving our loved ones. Give dad the best-selling griller’s cookbook Charred and Scruffed by Adam Perry Lang (Author), Peter Kaminsky (Contributor) this Father’s Day and see how a little creativity can go a long way.

2. Talking BBQ Thermometer Every great griller needs a trust worthy thermometer at hand. Make Dad talk of the town with a Talking BBQ Thermometer. This wireless BBQ Thermometer allows you to be chef and host at the same time. As you visit with guests, this thermometer will literally tell you when your entrée has reached perfection.

3. Cooking Apron Finally, Dad needs the finest garb to grill the tastiest grub. This Eat My Meat apron is the perfect accessory that is sure to entertain your guests and put a big smile on dad’s face.

From our family to yours, Happy Father’s Day!