What To Make For Dinner: Easy French Recipes - Steak Au Poivre And Madeleines

Not feeling inspired by your usual dishes? Here's what's for dinner.

French cuisine can get a bad rap. You might hear people say it's too fussy, uptight, difficile, what have you. But we're here to show you why French food should get a little weeknight love with a dinner menu that won't take all evening to cook. With flavorful ingredients and simple techniques, you can have steak au poivre and fresh leeks in no time at all. Break out your apron and cook yourself a meal that would make Julia Child proud.

① Main Course: Steak au Poivre
Steak, red wine, heavy cream and brandy? We don't speak French, but we're pretty sure that translates directly to "carnivorous perfection." The smooth sauce complements the peppery steak in chef Steve Corry's twist on this French classic.

② Side Dish: Young Leeks with Mustard-Tarragon Vinaigrette
Though they're known (and loved) for flaky pastries and cream-based sauces (see: steak au poivre), the French know their way around the vegetable garden. Here, simply cooked leeks are drizzled with a light tarragon vinaigrette that highlights and enhances their delicate flavor.

③ Dessert: Madeleines
These cookies are so light they're almost ethereal—you may need to eat a few to make sure they're real. If you have any leftovers, we recommend dunking them in tomorrow morning's coffee.