Remove your steaks from the fridge at least an hour before you want to cook them. Except if using fish or chicken ‘steaks’.

Heat a frying pan (skillet) just large enough to hold the steaks on a very high heat. For at least 5 minutes.

Scatter a very fine layer of salt over the bottom of the pan and add the steaks.

Cook for 2 minutes each side for medium rare(or 3 minutes for medium) or until cooked to your liking. Add the lemon halves, cut side down after you turn the steaks.

Remove steaks and place on 2 warm plates. Drizzle over a little hot lemon juice, if using and a generous glug of olive oil. Rest for at least 5 minutes, preferably 10.

Scatter with thyme, if using and season with pepper.