Balsamic-Marinated Sirloin and Asparagus

Ingredients :

1 x boneless beef top sirloin steak cut 1-inch thick, about 1 1/4 pounds
1 lb fresh asparagus trimmed
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper

Balsamic marinade :

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbl olive oil
1 tbl chopped fresh basil
1 1/2 tsp dijon-style mustard
1 x clove garlic crushed
1/2 tsp sugar

Method :

* In small bowl, combine marinade ingredients. Place steak and 1/3 cup marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn steak to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 15 minutes to 2 hours, turning occasionally. Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade.
* Meanwhile in large skillet, bring 1 inch of water to a boil; add asparagus. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook 2 to 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain. In shallow dish, combine asparagus and reserved marinade; turn to coat. Set aside.
* Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Place steak on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, uncovered, 17 to 21 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally. During last 3 minutes of grilling, arrange asparagus on grid around steak. Grill 3 minutes, turning once.
* Season steak and asparagus with salt and pepper. Carve steak crosswise into slices; serve with asparagus.
* Cook's Tip: To microwave asparagus, place asparagus and 1/2 cup water in shallow microwave-safe dish; cover. Microwave on HIGH 5 to 6 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain.