[Robert Brown via Matt Goyer] Fortunately, my wife gave me a great present for Father’s day a couple of years ago: grilling lessons. An unbelievably good investment. Although we only went through a couple of recipes, the few simple techniques we learned turned me around completely. Suddenly, I knew more about working the barbeque than anybody in my family. When I’d go visit my parents, I’d be the one grilling steak, potatoes, and veggies on the grill, giving impromptu lessons to anyone who’d listen.

As someone who grills often, Robert has some great tips (and more here) that I can certainly agree with. My basic formula for the ‘perfectly grilled steak’ is Robert’s #1 item: flip early and often. I usually will grill a NY Strip for 4 minutes, then rotate the steak 45 degrees to create a nice hatch pattern in the steak. 4 minutes later, flip the steak over and repeat.

Also, if you haven’t tried Stubbs Beef Marinade, you’re missing out on something special (I recommend marinating for 24-48 hours before grilling). Just don’t tell your friends that you bought it at Safeway or QFC – tell them it’s a secret recipe.