With the temperatures outside rising and vegetable gardens everywhere producing gorgeous veggies this salad is a perfect excuse to pick some vegetables, heat up the barbecue grill and enjoy the taste of summer in this fresh, crisp, delightfully filling salad.

Grilled Everything Steak and Veggie Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette

• 1 (1 1/2-pound) beef flank steak, trimmed
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 4 small summer yellow squash, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 4 small zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (optional)
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved

1. Heat the grill at the medium-high setting. Sprinkle the steak with salt and pepper to taste. Grill the meat (about 7 to 9 minutes per side on a gas grill for medium rare, longer if you prefer medium or well done). Let the steak cool, then cut it in half lengthwise and slice each half across the grain into thin strips.

2. Meanwhile, brush the yellow squash and zucchini with 2 tablespoons of the lemon juice and season it with salt and pepper. Grill the sliced vegetables, turning them once, until tender (about 2 to 3 minutes). Then cut them into thirds.

3. In a food processor, combine the parsley, basil, garlic, Dijon, and remaining tablespoon of lemon juice and blend well. With the motor running, slowly add the oil and blend well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. In a large bowl, combine the steak, squash, zucchini, and onion, if desired. Add the dressing and toss to mix. Sprinkle with more salt and pepper, if desired. Stir in the tomatoes and serve.

Makes 6 servings.

Recipe and Photo Courtesy of FamilyFun.com